ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at ways of classifying non-fiction texts. We begin by giving an overview of the development of genre theory and its classroom applications. After examining some of the criticisms of genre theory we move on to an exploration of how this work has been used to inform curriculum guidance including the First Steps programme and the non-fiction strand of the National Literacy Strategy. This leads into an exploration of the six text types commonly used in the literacy hour. We then discuss some of the issues raised when we try to classify texts, focusing particularly on variation within genres. The last section returns to the genre debate and outlines how a focus on text types can be used as a starting point for developing critical literacy.
