3.2 Reading Projects

Choice 2: A Pamphlet

Pamphlets are usually to inform, explain, describe, or persuade someone about something. They can show problems and solutions or cause and effects. They are focused on a single subject and answers a small number of questions. If you choose this reading project, be sure you narrow down your topic and don't try to cover too much information. 

Content Considerations

  • What is the who, what, when, where, why and how? 
  • What focus will you consider?
  • What is most important? (These will help determine the headings.) 

Audience?

  • Who will want to read the article or story? 
  • Do you want a specific reaction from the reader?    

YOUR TEACHER IS LOOKING FOR:

They have a title and headings. Information is presented using bullets OR short paragraphs, as well as some visual features (pictures, map, graph, timeline).    

An attractive design has a nice combination and balance of text and images, as well as high contrast colours (usually a dark font, light background). It can be done on a page with two or three panels. These fold when printed back to back so a complete pamphlet would have two pages (a front and a back) and each page would have two or three panels. 

  • TOPIC: The topic is specific and intended to answer a small number of questions. 
  • TEXT/FONTS: The text stands out against the background and is highly readable.
  • GRAPHICS/IMAGES: The images or graphics included relate directly to the information. 
  • COLOURS:  The colour choices enhance the visibility of the information. 
  • LAYOUT: The layout as the main point at the top, is organized, and makes sense. The organization allows the viewers to understand the information. 
  • TEXT FEATURES - Choose a few text features from the list below that will enhance your pamphlet. Do not try to use all of them! Remember, pamphlets have many non-fiction text features, with a nice balance of text and graphics:
  • INFORMATION: The information is accurate and purposeful.
  • CUPS: The final product has minimal errors in capitals, usage (grammar), punctuation, and spelling. 
  • bold/coloured text
  • captions
  • charts
  • diagrams
  • fact boxes
  • graphs
  • headings
  • images/photos
  • lists - bulleted or numbered
  • maps
  • sidebars
  • subheadings
  • tables
  • timelines
  • title

                 

TOOLS TO MAKE PAMPHLETS:

When making a pamphlet, consider the following tools:

1. Microsoft Word or Open Office document:

You can use "Smart Art", "Shapes", and/or "Icons" to help build your pamphlet.

OPTIONAL: After you open the software, under file, you can choose NEW FROM TEMPLATE. You may find a template for a "brochure" or "pamphlet" that you like. You simply replace the images and text on the template with your own. You can also choose a colour scheme that suits your topic.

 2. There are amazing templates you can use here - ask your home facilitator to get you started with a free account:

LUCID PRESS. 

    • Click on TEMPLATES or SMART TEMPLATE. 
    • Under "For Print", choose Brochures / Leaflets. Choose one with two or three panels. 
    • Replace the images and text on the template with your own. You can also choose a colour scheme that suits your topic.
    • When you go to download, you'll need to keep the default settings in order for it to download for free. 

3. You can always create one by hand on paper and deliver it to your teacher.