Unit Plan 20 (Grade 5 ELA): Comparing Stories by the Same Author

Focus: Patterns in theme/setting/plot; author’s choices

Grade Level: 5

Subject Area: English Language Arts (Reading Literature, Writing/Information)

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

I. Introduction

This week spotlights author craft. Students will read two short works by the same author and compare the writer’s patterns—recurring themes, settings, and plot structures—and how deliberate choices (narrator, dialogue, imagery, pacing) shape meaning. They’ll finish by writing a clear, well-organized informational comparison that explains the author’s approach across both texts.

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to…

1. Compare and contrast two stories by the same author, explaining patterns in theme, setting, and plot and how the author’s choices create effects (RL.5.9).
2. Write an informational piece that introduces a comparison, uses clear structure, draws on specific details from both texts, includes linking words/phrases, precise vocabulary, and a concluding statement (W.5.2 a–e).

Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 5

• RL.5.9, W.5.2

Success Criteria — student language

• I can name what’s similar and different in theme, setting, and plot across two stories by the same author.
• I can cite specific moments/lines that show the author’s choices (narration, dialogue, description, pacing).
• My writing has a clear focus, organized sections, linking words, precise terms, and a conclusion that follows from my ideas.