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Teacher Resources by Grade
|1st - 2nd||3rd - 4th|
|5th - 6th||7th - 8th|
|9th - 10th||11th - 12th|
Exploring Compare and Contrast Structure in Expository Texts
|Grades||3 – 5|
|Lesson Plan Type||Standard Lesson|
|Estimated Time||Four 45- to 60-minute sessions|
This lesson focuses on identifying and analyzing the compare and contrast text structure within expository texts. First, students are introduced to the terms compare and contrast and asked to find similarities and differences between two common items. Next, students work in small groups to identify texts that are comparing and contrasting information. Students are then introduced to the Venn diagram as a tool that demonstrates similarities and differences and aids in learning new material.
- Online Venn Diagram: Use this interactive online tool to help your students compare and contrast differing ideas in the texts they read.
- Venn Diagram mobile app: Compare and contrast ideas on a mobile device.
- Nests and Houses PowerPoint Presentation: Provides the visual support your students need to help them identify key elements and structures in compare/contrast texts.
Rhoder, C. (2002). Mindful reading: Strategy training that facilitates transfer. Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy, 45(6), 498–512.
- By learning to identify and use specific strategies for reading, students will be able to read and study more quickly and effectively.
- Introducing graphic organizers, such as a Venn diagram, can help students see a picture of the ideas and their relationships, which will help them remember the information being presented.