Writing Effective Summaries for Fiction and Nonfiction

Larissa Co explains how to write summaries for fiction and non-fiction. For fiction, she introduces the 'Somebody Wanted But So' framework to create concise summaries, using Harry Potter as an example. For non-fiction, she emphasizes identifying the main point and necessary details, using a CDC article as a demonstration. The video also covers the importance of citations.

What is the main purpose of a summary?

• To confuse the reader

• To provide the main point and necessary details

• To retell the entire story in detail

• To entertain the reader

How long can a summary be according to the video?

• As long as the original text

• One sentence to one paragraph

• Two paragraphs

• One page

What framework is suggested for writing a one-sentence summary for fiction?

• Problem Solution

• First Then Finally

• Cause Effect

• Somebody Wanted But So

In the 'Somebody Wanted But So' framework, what does 'But' represent?

• The setting

• The conflict or problem

• The resolution

• The main character

What is the main difference between the two Harry Potter one-sentence summaries provided?

• One includes Dumbledore, the other does not

• One is longer than the other

• One focuses on Harry wanting to be loved, the other on him wanting to be normal

• One mentions Hogwarts, the other does not

When expanding a one-sentence summary to a paragraph, what should you add?

• Unnecessary details

• More main characters

• Additional important elements and details

• A new plot twist

Why can't the 'Somebody Wanted But So' framework always be used for non-fiction?

• Non-fiction doesn't have characters

• Non-fiction doesn't follow a plot diagram

• Non-fiction is always longer

• Non-fiction is too complex

What is the main point of the NPR article used in the example?

• Activities safe for vaccinated people

• The importance of wearing masks

• The dangers of COVID-19

• The benefits of vaccination

What should you do after summarizing information from a source?

• Ignore the source

• Paraphrase without citation

• Rewrite the entire source

• Provide a citation

What is still important to do in public according to the NPR article?

• Stay indoors

• Avoid all social interactions

• Wear masks

• Get tested frequently