Unit Plan 35 (Grade 5 ELA): Author Study – Style and Craft

Focus: Comparing works by one author; tone; craft imitation

Grade Level: 5

Subject Area: English Language Arts (Reading Literature; Writing—Craft; Speaking & Listening)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session

I. Introduction

This week, readers study an author’s signature style by examining two (or more) works by the same writer. Students will notice how the author’s tone, word choice, sentence patterns, and structural moves shape meaning, and they’ll compare/contrast how the author approaches similar themes/topics across texts. Writers then imitate a chosen craft move to produce a short, original scene or paragraph. Finally, students present a brief reading of their imitation, adapting to a formal speaking context.

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to…

1. Compare and contrast how a single author’s works within the same genre approach similar themes/topics, citing evidence of style and tone (RL.5.9).
2. Produce clear, coherent writing that imitates a specific craft move (diction, syntax, imagery, repetition, dialogue rhythm) appropriate to task, purpose, and audience (W.5.4).
3. Present a brief reading/explanation of their imitation using formal English and adapting speech to audience and purpose (SL.5.6).

Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 5

• RL.5.9, W.5.4, SL.5.6

Success Criteria — student language

• I can name an author’s craft moves (e.g., vivid verbs, short punchy sentences, figurative language) and provide text evidence.
• I can compare two works by the same author and explain how the tone or approach to a theme is similar/different.
• I can write a new piece that imitates one craft move (not copying) and reads smoothly for my audience.
• I can present my work using formal word choice and clear delivery.