Unit Plan 20 (Grade 2 ELA): Two Versions of the Same Story
Second graders compare and contrast different versions of the same story from various cultures, analyzing characters, settings, and lessons. This unit builds comprehension, cultural awareness, and discussion skills through paired tales and collaborative talk.
Focus: Compare/contrast; different tellings/cultures
Grade Level: 2
Subject Area: English Language Arts (Reading Literature • Speaking/Listening)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Stories travel. This week, students read two versions of the same tale (different authors and/or cultures), then compare and contrast how the stories are alike and different. Along the way they’ll describe how characters respond to events/challenges in each version and practice respectful partner talk to build ideas together.
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to…
- Compare and contrast two versions of the same story (characters, setting, events, message) from different authors and/or cultures (RL.2.9).
- Describe how characters respond to major events and challenges in each version (RL.2.3).
- Participate in collaborative conversations with partners/small groups, following agreed-upon rules and building on others’ ideas (SL.2.1).
Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 2
- RL.2.9, RL.2.3, SL.2.1
Success Criteria — student language
- I can tell how the two stories are the same and different.
- I can say how a character reacts to a big event in each version.
- I can use conversation rules (take turns, listen, add on) and sentence frames to explain my thinking.