Activity Overview
There are two settings in the story. New York, where most the events of the story take place (Times Square and Chinatown), and Connecticut, where Chester is from.
In this activity, students will use information from the text to compare and contrast the two settings.
Here is an example:
- New York: "The sight was too terrible and beautiful for a cricket who up to now had measured high things by the height of his willow tree and sounds by the burble of a running brook."
- Connecticut: "I lived inside an old tree stump, next to a willow tree, and I often go up to the roof to look around. On the other side of the stump from the willow tree there's a brook that runs past."
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
Create a storyboard comparing and contrasting the settings in the story.
- Use the template provided by your teacher.
- In the left column, identify the two settings.
- Describe the settings using quotes from the book.
- In the left column, illustrate the settings with appropriate scenes, items, and characters.
- Click "Save & Exit" when done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Similarities | Student identifies and explains many of the similarities between the two. | Student identifies and explains some of the similarities between the two. | Student identifies and explains few of the similarities between the two. |
| Differences | Student identifies and explains many of the differences between the two. | Student identifies and explains some of the differences between the two. | Student identifies and explains few of the differences between the two. |
| Images | Images are clear and creative. | Most images are easy to understand, but at least two images do not fit. | Images are not easy to understand. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student makes few errors. | Student makes two or three errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
Activity Overview
There are two settings in the story. New York, where most the events of the story take place (Times Square and Chinatown), and Connecticut, where Chester is from.
In this activity, students will use information from the text to compare and contrast the two settings.
Here is an example:
- New York: "The sight was too terrible and beautiful for a cricket who up to now had measured high things by the height of his willow tree and sounds by the burble of a running brook."
- Connecticut: "I lived inside an old tree stump, next to a willow tree, and I often go up to the roof to look around. On the other side of the stump from the willow tree there's a brook that runs past."
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
Create a storyboard comparing and contrasting the settings in the story.
- Use the template provided by your teacher.
- In the left column, identify the two settings.
- Describe the settings using quotes from the book.
- In the left column, illustrate the settings with appropriate scenes, items, and characters.
- Click "Save & Exit" when done.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Similarities | Student identifies and explains many of the similarities between the two. | Student identifies and explains some of the similarities between the two. | Student identifies and explains few of the similarities between the two. |
| Differences | Student identifies and explains many of the differences between the two. | Student identifies and explains some of the differences between the two. | Student identifies and explains few of the differences between the two. |
| Images | Images are clear and creative. | Most images are easy to understand, but at least two images do not fit. | Images are not easy to understand. |
| Spelling and Grammar | Student makes few errors. | Student makes two or three errors in spelling and grammar. | Student makes multiple errors in spelling and grammar. |
How Tos about The Cricket in Times Square Compare and Contrast Settings
How to help students visualize and map story settings for deeper understanding
Visualizing and mapping story settings empowers students to make stronger text-to-self and text-to-world connections, deepening their comprehension and engagement.
Introduce key setting features with a class discussion
Begin by identifying and listing the important details of each setting as a group. This helps students notice differences and similarities, and provides background knowledge for mapping.
Model how to draw simple maps of each setting
Demonstrate how to sketch a basic outline of both New York and Connecticut using clues from the text. Encourage students to label places and features, such as Times Square, the willow tree, or the brook, to reinforce spatial awareness.
Guide students as they create their own setting maps
Invite students to draw and label their own versions of each setting on paper or digitally. Suggest they add characters or items from the story for extra detail. This makes the settings memorable and personal.
Facilitate a gallery walk to share and discuss maps
Have students display their maps around the room. Lead a brief walk where they can observe each other's work and discuss how the contrasting settings affect the story and characters. This encourages reflection and community building.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Cricket in Times Square Compare and Contrast Settings
How do you compare and contrast the settings in 'The Cricket in Times Square'?
To compare and contrast the settings in 'The Cricket in Times Square', examine the differences and similarities between New York City (Times Square and Chinatown) and Connecticut, Chester's home. Use quotes from the text to highlight unique features of each location, such as the bustling city versus peaceful nature, and discuss how these settings affect the story and characters.
What are the main differences between New York and Connecticut in the story?
The main differences are that New York is busy, noisy, and full of lights and people, while Connecticut is quiet, natural, and calm, featuring willow trees and brooks. These contrasting environments shape Chester the cricket's experiences and feelings in the story.
How can students illustrate the settings in 'The Cricket in Times Square'?
Students can illustrate the settings by drawing key scenes from New York (like Times Square’s bright lights) and Connecticut (such as the willow tree and brook). Including characters and important items from each place helps show the differences visually.
Why is comparing the two settings important for understanding the story?
Comparing the two settings is important because it helps students see how environment influences characters and plot. Chester’s reactions to New York’s excitement compared to his peaceful life in Connecticut show how setting affects mood and choices.
What quotes from the book best describe New York and Connecticut?
For New York: “The sight was too terrible and beautiful for a cricket who up to now had measured high things by the height of his willow tree and sounds by the burble of a running brook.” For Connecticut: “I lived inside an old tree stump, next to a willow tree, and I often go up to the roof to look around… there’s a brook that runs past.” These quotes highlight the contrast between the two places.
More Storyboard That Activities
Cricket in Times Square, The
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