Compare & Contrast

bom-compareWith Michigan adopting the Common Core Standards, new emphasis is being placed on deeper comprehension. First and second graders are expected to compare and contrast different aspects of the stories they read. Recently, first graders have stretched their thinking by comparing and contrasting characters and their adventures. Second graders have extended this skill as they studied different versions of familiar folktales. As they compare and contrast, students support their answers with evidence from their reading. This strengthens problem solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills which are important to successful reading. Even more importantly, talking and sharing about books is fun! You can engage in these conversations with your child by asking, “Which of these two characters are alike or different?” or “How is this story the same or different from that story?” and “What made you think that?” By doing this, you can help develop your child’s comprehension. Happy reading!