Standard: 6.RI.9 – Compare and contrast one author’s presentation of events with that of another (e.g., a memoir written by and a biography on the same person).
Grade level: Grade 6
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Reading: Informational Text
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on the ability to compare and contrast how different authors present the same events or topics. It is crucial for developing critical reading skills and understanding that different perspectives can offer unique insights. Before tackling this standard, students should be able to identify main ideas, understand authors’ purposes, and compare and contrast basic elements in texts.
After mastering this standard, students will be better equipped to analyze and synthesize information from multiple sources, a skill that is essential for advanced academic work and informed citizenship.
Common Misconception 1
A common misconception is that all texts on the same topic are similar in their presentation. This is incorrect because authors often have different purposes, audiences, and perspectives, which influence how they present information.
Intervention 1
To address this misconception, use paired texts and structured comparison activities that draw attention to differences in tone, style, and purpose.
Common Misconception 2
Another misconception is believing that one text is inherently more trustworthy than another. This overlooks the importance of evaluating sources based on credibility, bias, and context.
Intervention 2
Introduce lessons on source evaluation, teaching students to consider an author’s background, purpose, and potential biases when comparing texts.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should be able to identify the main idea and supporting details in a text, understand the concept of author’s purpose, and have basic skills in comparing and contrasting texts.
Subsequent Knowledge
Students will develop the ability to critically evaluate how different authors present information, which will enhance their skills in critical thinking, analysis, and synthesis of information across multiple texts.
Instructional Activities
- Create Venn diagrams to compare and contrast two texts.
- Hold class discussions on different perspectives presented in paired texts.
- Assign group projects where students present on the differences between a memoir and a biography of the same person.
- Use graphic organizers to map out authors’ purposes and perspectives.
- Conduct debates on the reliability and credibility of different sources.
