Grade 6 Reading | FL B.E.S.T. Standard: ELA.6.R.3.3
Comparing texts helps us understand how different authors approach topics, share ideas, and communicate messages. When we compare, we look for similarities (how texts are alike) and differences (how texts are unlike). This deeper analysis helps us become better readers and thinkers!
"How are these texts ALIKE?"
Signal words: both, similarly, alike, same, in common, also
"How are these texts DIFFERENT?"
Signal words: however, but, unlike, whereas, on the other hand, different
Same topic, different types of text
Ex: A poem and an article about nature
Same topic, different viewpoints
Ex: Two editorials - one for/one against
Different stories, same message
Ex: Two stories about courage
Same information, different structure
Ex: A speech and a letter
| Letter | Question to Ask |
|---|---|
| Content | What is each text about? |
| Organization | How is each text structured? |
| Message | What point is each author making? |
| Purpose | Why did each author write this? |
| Audience | Who is each text written for? |
| Response | How does each text make you feel? |
| Evidence | What details support your analysis? |
Let's Practice Comparing Two Texts!
Trees are essential to life on Earth. They produce oxygen through photosynthesis, with a single mature tree generating enough oxygen for two people annually. Trees also absorb carbon dioxide, helping combat climate change. Additionally, forests provide habitats for countless species and prevent soil erosion. Scientists estimate that we need to plant billions of trees to offset human carbon emissions.
The old oak stands like a wise grandfather,
Arms stretched wide to embrace the sky.
It whispers secrets to the wind,
Stories of seasons come and gone.
In its shade, children laugh and play,
While birds nest in its gentle crown.
A guardian of memories,
Rooted deep in sacred ground.
Text A:
Text B:
1. Read both texts completely before answering questions
2. Look for patterns - What do the texts have in common?
3. Use evidence from BOTH texts when supporting your answer
4. Consider genre - How does the type of text affect the message?
5. Think about perspective - What viewpoint does each author have?
| For Similarities | For Differences |
|---|---|
| "Both texts..." | "Text A... while Text B..." |
| "Similarly, both authors..." | "Unlike Text A, Text B..." |
| "The texts share..." | "However, the authors differ in..." |
| "In common, both..." | "On the other hand..." |