Nonfiction Text Structures
Lesson 4 - Compare and Contrast
Today we are going to learn how a compare/contrast nonfiction text is built and how understanding this helps the reader with comprehension.
We're thinking about texts that are built to compare and contrast information. The author uses many details to give the reader a clear picture of the information s/he wants the reader to "get."
In a compare/contrast article the author may compare people, places, objects, animals and specifically comparing and contrasting two or more aspects or attributes.
In the article you will read today, the author will compare and contrast different animals and the ways that they can send messages to other animals. The text uses a matrix design because it compares each animal using similar categories: the type of message, examples, animals that use this message, its purpose, and if the animal is dangerous to humans.
As you read, think about how the different animals communicate in the article.
As you are reading this article look for signal words that go along with the structure. The signal words for compare/contrast are:
however
but
as well as
on the other hand
not only...but also
while
although
unless
similarly
yet
Now that you have read Animal Messages, work to organize the information into a matrix. The first one in each group has been done for you as an example. Remember to make a copy and save it in your reading folder.
You can read for the remainder of the time. For this unit you must be reading nonfiction. If you do not have a physical nonfiction book go to www.getepic.com/students and enter our class code: bzr3899. Select your name and go to your mailbox located near the top right. I have placed 40+ nonfiction books for you to read there in the three different categories.