Apples and Oranges

Dear Readers,

You have learned how to compare and contrast different topics like nonfiction and fiction; boas and pythons; TV or no TV (gasp!). Next, I would like you to take it a step further and compare and contrast your reading. You may choose two storybook characters and tell me how they are similar and different. Be sure to include text evidence in your response as well as signal words (which I have bolded below). Please read my example below. I look forward to your comments!

Your teacher, 
Mrs. Eads 

Harry Potter from the Harry Potter Series and Percy Jackson from the Percy Jackson  Series, are two very well-know storybook characters. Harry and Percy are similar because they are both young boys who face great dangers, and demonstrate courage. They both battle forces greater than themselves, but triumph in the end. Also, they are both characters from popular book series. In addition, Harry and Percy  have the help of their friends like, Hermione and Annabeth to help them along the way.Although Harry and Percy are alike, they also have some significant differences. For example, Harry is an orphan, but Percy's mother is still alive. Harry deals with the world of wizards and Percy lives in a world of Greeks Gods and myths. I find both characters to be interesting and unique. I enjoy reading about their adventures.

What do YOU think?

Readers,

As we read our fiction books, we have learned how to get to know a character in a deep way. We have studied:

• character traits (appearance, actions, dialogue, and thoughts)
• a character's relationship with other characters
• how a character changes in the story

At this point, you should have a well-rounded view of the character in your book. Now, I want to know what you think about your character -- your OPINION.

Your post must state your opinion, and your opinion MUST be supported by the text (text evidence) and what you know about the world. Be sure to edit.

Here is my example:

I think Ida B is trying to be tough because she doesn't know how to handle all of the heartache from her mother's illness and the changes in her life. In the story, her mother cries on her shoulder and apologizes to Ida B for the pain she is causing her, and Ida B has to give her best effort to not cry and be kind to her mother. Instead, she shows no emotion toward her mother. Also, when Ms. Washington puts her hand on Ida B, she feels it for some time after, which means Ida B still cares. I predict Ida B will come around because she cannot continue to live with such a hateful attitude. It will eventually get to her.

Happy posting,
Mrs. Eads

Concise, Precise Summaries!

Readers,

As a voracious reader, I love discussing books with other lovers of literature. I have joined book clubs, emailed with friends, and sat down over many meals where the conversation turned to what everyone was reading. Books are a part of my life.

However, I have noticed I have certain friends who never fail to disappoint me with their EXCELLENT recommendations. I finally figured out why they are so great at this life skill ...

When recommending a book to me, they give a concise, precise summary of the book. Their summary consist of the main characters, the setting, and the problem and solution, otherwise known as, the plot. They use LITERARY ELEMENTS to explain what the book is about!

I would like for you to write a short summary about the fiction book you are reading, includingcharacters, setting, and the plot (problem/solution). Assume I have not read the book and be sure to edit your work.

Here is an example from Matilda.Matilda is a funny story about a young, brilliant girl living with her mean, ignorant family. Matilda puts up with her family by reading many books and forming a special bond with her teacher, Miss. Honey. Matilda helps her teacher and school against the evil headmistress Ms.Trunchbull by putting her special talents to use.

I cannot wait to see your understanding of what you are reading!

Love, 

Mrs. Eads