Mini lesson Comparing the Same Genre — 5th grade

Connection We have learned how to analyze characters as a means to better understand the structure and themes in the fantasy genre. Today we will learn how to complete a Comparison Grid that will help us to identify similarities and differences across different fantasy stories.

Teaching We have learned that many fantasies follow an event structure where something is wrong in the fabric of the universe, or the world is out of order. The characters may represent stereotypes of good and evil and the main characters are usually on a quest or journey to help restore order to the world.

Today we are going to learn how to use an organizer, a Comparison Grid, to help us compare and contrast fantasy stories by identifying specific examples of fantasy elements within stories. Let’s review this chart together so we know what type of information we are searching for.

Comparison Grid Title Cinderella Pinocchio Similarities Differences Conclusions Setting Characters Problem Events Solution/ Ending Magic Illustrations Other

Now that we know the elements we are looking for, I am going to model how to complete this grid for Cinderella. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_SOL5wG7t1g Now, listen to Pinocchio and complete the chart when finished. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XDxQaWBxp1A

Using a comparison grid is a good tool to help us focus on the most important elements of a fantasy. It helps us to see the overall structure of the story and we can use this information to identify similarities and differences across fantasy texts.

Link As you read, think about how the book you are reading is like other books you’ve read in the same genre.