CRITERIA FOR EVALUATING NONFICTION
BOOKS
Content
Accuracy:
Error-free information
Current information
Objective, balanced presentation of information
Bias-free viewpoints and images
Balanced representations of cultural, ethnic, and racial groups
Correct use of grammar, spelling, and sentence structure
Appropriateness:
- Concepts and vocabulary relevant to students' abilities
- Information relevant to North Carolina's K-12 curriculum
- Presentation compatible with the intellectual maturity of intended audience
- Formatting (page layout, print size) reflects targeted students
- Easy-on-the-eyes paper (color and texture)
- Writing style suitable for intended audience in terms of subject matter, reading level,
and interpretation
Scope:
- Information of sufficient scope to cover the topic adequately for the intended audience
- Logical sequence of topics
- Sections and chapter divisions reflect age group
Features
Cover:
- Attractive
- Clearly indicates what book is about
- Appropriate for targeted audience
Illustrations:
- Characterized by variety
- Have captions and labels
- Adequate in size and legibility
- Accurate in placement and content
- Appropriate and relevant
- Sufficient in frequency and number
- Lack of bias (sexual, ethnic, religious, etc.)
- Color where needed
Table of Contents:
- Accurate and exact
- Annotated or has subheadings
Glossary:
- Complete list of unfamiliar words and terms
- Complete definitions
- Pronunciation guide
Documentation:
- Source notes or footnotes identify where information comes from
- Bibliography present for research or "further reading"
Index:
Teacher's Guide:
- Supplementary or background information provided
- Suggestions for classroom activities or procedures
- Stated objectives
- Answer key
Potential Instructional Uses:
- Supplement or support lessons
- Whole-class, cooperative group, or independent study
- Gifted and talented
- Remedial
- Introduction or review
- Reference
- Enrichment
- Leisure reading
- At-risk
Reasonable price in comparison to similar books.
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