Activity Overview
In this activity, students will read several nonfiction texts around a similar topic. They will compare, analyze, and synthesize the ideas in the texts and may draw new conclusions about the topic. In this example, students will have read “Good Pet, Bad Pet” and "Pit Bulls Overcrowd Chicago Animal Shelters".
Example of Integrating Texts with "Good Pet, Bad Pet"
“Good Pet, Bad Pet”
- Purebred dogs cost $500-$1000. Adding in accessories and veterinary bills makes owning a dog very costly.
- Dogs may be dangerous and need to be properly trained. They are also very expensive.
"Pit Bulls Overcrowd Chicago Animal Shelters"
- "For those looking to own a pet, pit bulls are everywhere. They’re for sale on eBay for up to $1,000 each, at pet stores, in parking lots."
- "Some owners have to give up the dogs after they bite someone. In other cases, owners say they lost their home or lost a job and can’t afford them. Pit bulls are not allowed in many apartments."
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Students will compare, analyze, and synthesize the ideas in two different texts.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Write the titles of the two texts in the column headings.
- Write information from the texts in the description boxes. Be sure that the information in the left column and the right column are related.
- Add illustrations for each cell, using appropriate scenes, characters, items, and dialogue.
- Save and Exit
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
In this activity, students will read several nonfiction texts around a similar topic. They will compare, analyze, and synthesize the ideas in the texts and may draw new conclusions about the topic. In this example, students will have read “Good Pet, Bad Pet” and "Pit Bulls Overcrowd Chicago Animal Shelters".
Example of Integrating Texts with "Good Pet, Bad Pet"
“Good Pet, Bad Pet”
- Purebred dogs cost $500-$1000. Adding in accessories and veterinary bills makes owning a dog very costly.
- Dogs may be dangerous and need to be properly trained. They are also very expensive.
"Pit Bulls Overcrowd Chicago Animal Shelters"
- "For those looking to own a pet, pit bulls are everywhere. They’re for sale on eBay for up to $1,000 each, at pet stores, in parking lots."
- "Some owners have to give up the dogs after they bite someone. In other cases, owners say they lost their home or lost a job and can’t afford them. Pit bulls are not allowed in many apartments."
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Students will compare, analyze, and synthesize the ideas in two different texts.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Write the titles of the two texts in the column headings.
- Write information from the texts in the description boxes. Be sure that the information in the left column and the right column are related.
- Add illustrations for each cell, using appropriate scenes, characters, items, and dialogue.
- Save and Exit
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Integrating Texts - Good Pet, Bad Pet
Organize student thinking with a graphic organizer
Use a T-Chart or Venn diagram to help students visually sort similarities and differences between texts. Graphic organizers make it easier for students to see connections and build analytical skills.
Model comparing and contrasting with think-alouds
Read short excerpts from each text aloud and explain your thought process as you identify similarities and differences. This helps students understand how to approach the task independently.
Guide students to use evidence from the texts
Encourage students to cite specific details when making comparisons or drawing conclusions. Referencing text evidence strengthens their arguments and comprehension.
Facilitate group discussions to deepen understanding
Invite students to share their findings and ideas in pairs or small groups. Collaborative discussions help students refine their thinking and consider new perspectives.
Prompt students to create a new conclusion or insight
Ask students to synthesize what they've learned by writing or sharing a new insight about the topic based on both texts. This step encourages higher-level thinking and application.
Frequently Asked Questions about Integrating Texts - Good Pet, Bad Pet
How do I teach students to compare and integrate information from multiple texts?
To teach students how to compare and integrate information from multiple texts, have them read two related articles, use a T-chart to organize similarities and differences, and guide them to synthesize ideas by discussing or writing about new conclusions they draw from the combined information.
What is a T-chart and how can it help students compare texts?
A T-chart is a graphic organizer with two columns used to compare and contrast information. It helps students organize details from each text side by side, making it easier to analyze similarities and differences between sources.
What are some easy activities for integrating nonfiction texts in 4th or 5th grade?
Easy activities for integrating nonfiction texts include using T-charts, Venn diagrams, or group discussions where students list facts from each text, illustrate key points, and discuss or write about connections between the sources.
How can I help students synthesize ideas from 'Good Pet, Bad Pet' and 'Pit Bulls Overcrowd Chicago Animal Shelters'?
Guide students to find related points in both texts, record them in a T-chart, and discuss how the information connects—for example, comparing reasons dogs are given up or the costs of pet ownership. Encourage students to draw their own conclusions from the combined information.
Why is it important for students to analyze multiple sources on a topic?
Analyzing multiple sources helps students develop critical thinking, recognize different perspectives, and form more informed opinions. It also supports skills needed for research and real-world problem solving.
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Good Pet, Bad Pet
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