Generally Speaking! Making Generalizations in Fiction

Lesson Plan - Get It!

Audio:

• What is a generalization?

A generalization is a broad statement about a group of people or things. Keywords change the meaning of the generalization.

Some examples of keywords include the following.

• sometimes
• always
• never
• most
• all
• generally
• many
• nobody
• everybody
• usually

Look at how keywords change the meaning of the following statements.

• Dogs always bark.
• Dogs never bark.
• Sometimes dogs bark.
• Usually dogs bark.
• Most dogs bark.
• All dogs bark.

Generalizations are either valid or faulty.

Valid means true, but for a generalization to be true, it has to be supported by facts and proven with examples. A faulty generalization is one that is false, or not supported by facts.

• Which of the above generalizations about dogs are valid and which are faulty?

Some keywords to look out for in faulty generalizations are all, always, and never.

Explore Making Generalizations and watch the video below to learn more. Be sure to take notes on what you learn!

• Are you ready to give finding generalizations a try?

Grab a novel you are currently reading or select one from the Suggested Reading in the right-hand sidebar.

As you read, consider these questions. The Making Generalizations Graphic Organizer, found under Downloadable Resources in the right-hand sidebar, might help you organize your thoughts and write down facts to support the generalization.

• Which sentences in the text are like big umbrella statements?
• What words and phrases did you find in the book that signal generalization statements?
• Which characters make these statements, and are they followed by supporting facts?
• Is the statement made by the character a valid or faulty generalization?
• What is the difference between a valid and faulty generalization?
• What generalizations can you make from the book or text?

When ready, continue to the Got It? section for more practice!