Signs and Labels Tell Us Things

You read lots of short writing every day that is not in books: signs, labels, and notices. Most of these are written to inform you, and some tell you what to do to stay safe. A sign that says 'Library: Second Floor' tells you where to go.

A label on a jar that says 'Strawberry Jam' tells you what is inside. A sign that says 'Stop' or 'Do Not Enter' tells you how to act. These authors do not want to tell a story. They want you to know something quickly, so they use only a few words.

• 1Signs and labels are short writing.
• 2Most are written to inform.
• 3They use few words so you can read them fast.