Knowledge/Skill Building
📚 Two Authors, One Topic Close Read
Core Content
Project Launch
Essential Question
Submission Required
Students read two short informational passages on the same topic (e.g., social media’s impact on teens) from authors with differing perspectives. In small groups, they complete a T-chart comparing emphasized evidence, omitted facts, and tone. Groups draft a one-sentence comparative statement describing how the authors shape information differently.
Plan day
Day 1
Duration
—
Grouping
Small Group
Steps
6 steps
Lesson plan
6 steps| # | What teachers do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Introduce the project and essential question: How do authors reveal their perspective through their word choice? (15 min) |
| 2 | Facilitate a classroom discussion on authors' perspective using a ‘Perspective Panel’ role-play activity with students portraying authors. (20 min) |
| 3 | Guide students in reading two short passages on the same topic, focusing on identifying word choice and tone. (30 min) |
| 4 | Students work in small groups to complete a T-chart comparing the passages on emphasized evidence, omitted facts, and tone. (30 min) |
| 5 | Each group crafts a one-sentence comparative statement about how the authors shape information differently. (25 min) |
| 6 | Conduct a group sharing session where each group presents their T-chart and comparative statement to the class. (30 min) |
Preparation (3 items)
- Select two short informational passages on the same topic from authors with differing perspectives.
- Prepare role-play scenario and materials for the 'Perspective Panel' activity involving author perspectives.
- Set up classroom seating to facilitate group discussion and ensure clear presentation space for group activities.
Student-facing instructions
Your task is to learn how authors reveal their perspectives through word choice by engaging in a role-play activity, reading two passages, and working in groups to analyze and compare how each author presents their point of view. You will need the provided texts and materials for recording your analysis. Your goal is to understand the impact of language on perspective and present your group's findings to the class.