Get Your Students to Compare and Contrast Stories

The ability to compare and contrast stories is an important literacy skill that helps students think critically about what they read and recognize how different authors explore similar ideas in unique ways. By analyzing characters, settings, plot events, theme and author techniques, students develop a deeper understanding of literature while building essential reading and writing skills.

To complete this project, students will compare two literary texts that have been written about a similar topic. They will use the provided organizers to explore how each author uses story elements and techniques to develop characters, plot and themes. Students will then carefully examine similarities and differences before transforming their findings into a well-structured comparative essay.

You’ll find everything you need to implement this resource in your classroom inside the comprehensive project booklet. It includes:

• Project Overview
• Text Selection Graphic Organizer
• Text Analysis Graphic Organizers
• Text Comparison Graphic Organizers
• Comparative Essay Planner
• Assessment Rubric

This resource simplifies the process of teaching literary comparison by providing ready-to-use materials that help students stay focused and organized. Whether you’re working with novels, short stories or other literary texts, this project provides a clear framework that can be adapted to suit a variety of classroom needs and ability levels.

Teach Multiple Skills by Comparing Stories

This resource has been designed by your team to set your students up for success when it comes to comparing stories. The project-based format gives students ownership of their learning while providing enough structure to keep them on track.

Some of the key skills your students will demonstrate by completing this project include:

• Comparing characters and how their motivations are similar or different.
• Analyzing plot structures to identify common conflicts and resolutions.
• Investigating themes and how different authors communicate similar messages.
• Examining author choices, including language, perspective and literary techniques.
• Organizing evidence using graphic organizers and comparison charts.
• Developing writing confidence through guided comparative essay planning.
• Supporting their ideas with textual evidence.
• Engaging in meaningful classroom discussions about literature.

Download This Comparing Two Stories Project Today!

This comparing two stories project downloads as an easy-print PDF or editable Google Slides file. Use the Download button to access your preferred files. 

With ready-to-use organizers and clear writing supports, you’ll have everything needed to guide students from literary analysis to a polished comparative essay while saving valuable planning time.

For sustainability purposes, please consider printing the project booklet double-sided.

This resource was created by Stephanie Machart, a teacher in Illinois and a Teach Starter collaborator.

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