Comparing non-fiction texts
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can compare two non-fiction texts using conjunctions and evidence to elevate my writing.
Key learning points
- When comparing articles, look for points of similarity and difference.
- A comparative sentence needs to make the link between the texts clear, for example through a comparative conjunction.
- Correlative conjunctions can be used to create close comparisons.
- Within a comparison, the quotations chosen from each text must be linked by a point of similarity or contrast.
- Use precise and embedded evidence to support each idea and elevate your summaries.
Keywords
Sphere - refers to a specific group or area of influence- for example, the political sphere refers to the area of political activity
Galvanise - means to stimulate or inspire action or change
Empower - to give someone the power, confidence or ability to do something; usually makes them feel stronger
Succint - expressing something in a clear and concise manner, without unnecessary details or elaboration
Embedded - when referring to quotations, if a quotation is embedded then it is included in your own sentence
Common misconception
As long as I am comparing the key points of two sources that is enough.
Using both comparative and correlative conjunctions will ensure there is nuance in your comparisons. They will aslo help keep your comparisons succinct.
Teacher tip
This lesson will use the articles from Lesson 1 and 2. If these lessons haven't been completed, students will need time to read the articles. If they have read them already they might benefit from a short recap task of the main points.
Equipment
You will need a copy of Emmeline Pankhurst’s speech, ‘Freedom or Death’ which can be found in the additional materials and 'A letter to the dreamers' by Serena Williams, published by Porter, 2016.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.To compare means to...
Q2.When referring to quotations, if the quote is embedded that means...
Q3.A brief overview of the main points is known as a .
Q4.To be precise means....
Q5.When writing a comparative sentence you should...
Q6.To improve a piece of writing and to 'lift it up' is to it.
Assessment exit quiz
5 Questions
Q1.Match the keyword with their definitions.
stimulate or inspire action or change
give someone theconfidence or ability to do something
express something in a clear and concise manner
Q2.Which pair is a correct set of correlative conjunctions?
Q3. can be used to create close comparisons or make comparisons clear.
Q4.Complete this sentence: An embedded quote should be …
Q5.Complete the sentence: Within a comparison, the quotations chosen from each text must be linked by a point of or contrast.
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Comparing non-fiction texts, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Comparing non-fiction texts, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 4 English lessons from the Spoken language: the language of change unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.