Activity Overview
The original fairy tale of Cinderella has been retold in many different ways across the globe. There are many different points of views, as well as many adaptations to the original tale. Two of those retellings are Ella Enchanted, written by Gail Carson Levine, and Cinder, written by Marissa Meyer. This activity can be done in many ways. Students may compare all three stories, Ella Enchanted, Cinder, and Cinderella, or any two stories of their choice. Students will complete the chart provided as a template, but teachers may change categories for comparison as desired, or leave them blank for students to fill in on their own!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Complete a comparison chart for the stories Cinderella, Ella Enchanted, and Cinder.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Include 2-3 sentences in each description box for each category you are comparing.
- Create images that represent each description using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison Analysis | Text and images include a clear explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics. These comparisons go beyond superficial elements and show strong understanding of the story elements. | Text and images include an explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics, but the explanation may lack clarity or show only superficial understanding in some squares. | Text and images may include no explanation of similarities and/or differences, or they may make only superficial or inaccurate comparisons. |
| Textual Explanation | The text clearly and accurately describes all the scenes and concepts depicted. | The text clearly and accurately describes most of the scenes and concepts depicted. | The text fails to describe most of the scenes clearly and accurately. |
| Storyboard Image and Effort | Student clearly shows effort to convey the setting, characters and specific scene of the book. The scene is clearly identifiable based on the graphic depiction. | Student attempts to convey the setting, characters, and specific scene through use of graphics, but the depiction may be confusing, disordered, or lack some detail. | Student does not clearly convey the setting, characters, and scene. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student uses exemplary spelling and grammar. There are no errors. | Student makes one or two minor errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
Activity Overview
The original fairy tale of Cinderella has been retold in many different ways across the globe. There are many different points of views, as well as many adaptations to the original tale. Two of those retellings are Ella Enchanted, written by Gail Carson Levine, and Cinder, written by Marissa Meyer. This activity can be done in many ways. Students may compare all three stories, Ella Enchanted, Cinder, and Cinderella, or any two stories of their choice. Students will complete the chart provided as a template, but teachers may change categories for comparison as desired, or leave them blank for students to fill in on their own!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Complete a comparison chart for the stories Cinderella, Ella Enchanted, and Cinder.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Include 2-3 sentences in each description box for each category you are comparing.
- Create images that represent each description using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison Analysis | Text and images include a clear explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics. These comparisons go beyond superficial elements and show strong understanding of the story elements. | Text and images include an explanation of similarities and/or differences between the categories or topics, but the explanation may lack clarity or show only superficial understanding in some squares. | Text and images may include no explanation of similarities and/or differences, or they may make only superficial or inaccurate comparisons. |
| Textual Explanation | The text clearly and accurately describes all the scenes and concepts depicted. | The text clearly and accurately describes most of the scenes and concepts depicted. | The text fails to describe most of the scenes clearly and accurately. |
| Storyboard Image and Effort | Student clearly shows effort to convey the setting, characters and specific scene of the book. The scene is clearly identifiable based on the graphic depiction. | Student attempts to convey the setting, characters, and specific scene through use of graphics, but the depiction may be confusing, disordered, or lack some detail. | Student does not clearly convey the setting, characters, and scene. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student uses exemplary spelling and grammar. There are no errors. | Student makes one or two minor errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
How Tos about Comparing Cinder and Ella Enchanted
How to Facilitate a Lively Class Discussion After Comparing Fairy Tales
Encourage active participation by asking open-ended questions that prompt students to share their thoughts and connections between the stories. Use prompts like “Which character would you want as a friend and why?” to spark deeper thinking.
Prepare discussion questions in advance
List thought-provoking questions related to character choices, plot differences, and themes. This helps guide the conversation and ensures all students can contribute.
Set clear expectations for respectful dialogue
Explain discussion norms like listening carefully, taking turns, and valuing all opinions. This keeps the conversation safe and productive for everyone.
Assign roles to support participation
Give students roles like discussion leader, summarizer, or questioner. Roles help shy students get involved and keep the discussion organized.
Wrap up with a reflection activity
End by having students write or share a quick reflection on what they learned or what surprised them. This reinforces understanding and gives every student a voice.
Frequently Asked Questions about Comparing Cinder and Ella Enchanted
What is the difference between Cinder and Ella Enchanted?
Cinder by Marissa Meyer is a science fiction retelling set in a futuristic world with cyborgs, while Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine is a fantasy story featuring magic and curses. Both reimagine the Cinderella tale but with unique characters, settings, and themes.
How can I help students compare Cinder, Ella Enchanted, and Cinderella?
Use a comparison chart where students write 2-3 sentences in each category for each story. Let them add images of scenes, characters, or items, and allow flexibility to choose or modify categories for deeper analysis.
What categories work best for comparing fairy tale retellings in class?
Effective comparison categories include setting, main character traits, conflict, resolution, and themes. Teachers can customize or leave categories blank for student-led exploration.
Why use compare and contrast activities for fairy tale adaptations?
Compare and contrast activities help students build critical thinking by analyzing similarities and differences in plot, character, and themes. These activities also make lessons engaging and foster deeper story understanding.
What is a simple compare and contrast lesson for grades 4–6?
Have students fill out a comparison chart for two or three versions of Cinderella, writing descriptions for each story and illustrating their answers. This activity is easy to adapt and helps reinforce comprehension skills.
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