Foreword Worksheets

Related ELA Standard: RL.6.3

Core Standard
Answer Keys Here

Some books will often have a foreword section located at the very front of the book. The foreword is a section that written by someone other than the author of the work that highlights the value of this work. The primary purpose is to tell the reader why they should spend their time reading this work and what it holds in store as far as overall importance. The people that write a foreword are often experts in their respective field which, in a way, provides instant credible to what they are about to share. Often the person that is chosen to compose this section is just as important as what they say. This is why authors often labor a great deal over choosing this person. This series of worksheets will help student understand the use and significant features of well written forewords.

Foreword Worksheets:

True or False - We explore all the different things you would want to know about this part of a book.

Fill Ins - What is missing in each sentence?

Preface - How do you think these two concepts overlap and are different?

Your Opinion on It - Do you feel that these sections are helpful or desirable to be added to a work?

What's It Mean? - Break down a live example for yourself.

The Reason - What are some reasons an author might choose a particular person to write the foreword for their book?

Composition - Imagine that a local publisher is releasing a new edition of your favorite book, and they have asked you to write the foreword. Write about what this book has meant to you, why you think this new edition is important, and why you recommend it. Write it on a separate page.

Live Comparisons - Compare two examples and see how styles may be different.

Concept Organizer - This is very helpful when you are reviewing this concept as a class.

Who Would You Ask? - Imagine you are writing a book about your life.

Other Than the Author - Summarize what is presented to you, making reference to the information provided.

Breakdown - This is something we suggest students work as partners with first and then try another one on their own.

Your Picked - Imagine that you are an editor at a publishing house. You are working on a book written by a contemporary person that you really admire, and the two of you are talking about who might be the best person to write this section for their book. Answer the questions that follow.

Expectations - When does this section of the book at higher expectations on the message?

Short Example - When teachers are first introducing this topic to their students, this is a good place to start. It will give them some quick and easy-to-follow experience.

What is Foreword in a Book?

Not sure what a foreword is? Don't worry; you're not alone. Every novice writer, particularly one who wishes to self-publish a book, faces a steep learning curve in the early stages of their writing career. Apart from learning new skills, such as organizing and managing a book launch team, selecting an appropriate cover design, and setting up an Amazon Seller Account—there are also new vocabulary terms that must be mastered along the way.


The Derivation of "Foreword"?


Foreword is derived from the prefix fore, which may be translated as "before" or "in front." When paired with the word, "word," it translates to "before the word" or "before the phrase." Its function is made clear by the fact that it appears before the significant words of a book or other writing work. To be sure, it may be found in various genres of literature, including both fiction and nonfiction, but a foreword in and of itself is always nonfictional, providing accurate information about the author.


What is Foreword?


Usually written by someone other than the book's author, a foreword, mostly misspelled as "forward," serves as a quick introduction to the book via the personal or professional contact of the writer with the author or through connection to the subject or area. If you've been chosen to write the foreword of someone else's book... consider it a compliment. However, chances are, if an author chooses to write a foreword themselves, they may use it to describe how the book came to be—as Stephen King often does for his books.


How to Write a Foreword for a Book


Generally speaking, the foreword is the part of a book that appears before its main body. If you are asked to write one for a friend or colleague, here are some pointers to keep in mind.


- Introduce yourself and inform the audience of your personal connection with the author.


- Talk about the book and signify why the author is eligible to write this book.


- Write an endorsement and discuss how the author aims to help the readers (including you).


- Talk about your involvement in the book.


- Finally, sign your name as though it were a letter.


Foreword of "The Courage Map" by Franziska Iseli


Sir Richard Charles Nicholas Branson, a British billionaire, entrepreneur, and business magnate wrote the foreword for Franziska Iseli's book The Courage Map: 13 Principles to Living Boldly, which helps readers live boldly by tapping into their inner courage and planning a course for a better future.


"I've always had a strong desire to go on adventures, and I've been fortunate enough to enjoy many of them with my family and friends. I was fascinated when Franziska told me about her motorcycling adventure down the Silk Road in China. Every day, I see individuals making significant contributions to the world. You may wonder what they have in common—the determination to pursue their ambitions and make a big difference. Franziska's book demonstrates how that message might assist you in conducting your life and company on the principles of bravery, love, and compassion rather than fear and anxiety." – Richard Branson


The Final Cut


To conclude, the term foreword (often confused with "forward") consists of two words: fore and word. When the word fore is combined into any word, it indicates that something is taking place ahead of time (foreshadow, forebear, forecast).


According to its etymology, a foreword is a text that appears before the actual substance of the book. If ever asked to write one, start by introducing readers to your relationship with the author, explain why they should read the book, and establish the legitimacy of the book or author in the eyes of the reader.