Compare and contrast two characters using a Venn diagram
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JAY BEAN AND THE DREAMERS' CIRCUS PDF available at www.jaybean.com - Copyright © 2011
Character Compare and Contrast
Purpose
To identify the similarities and differences between two characters. In this case "Compare" refers to similarities and "Contrast" refers to differences. This activity will help the student define their perception of the character (preferably major characters) and distinguish between characteristics such as personality traits and physical traits.
Objective
The student will compare and contrast two characters from a short story using a Venn diagram (graphic organizer).
Materials
- Jay Bean and the Dreamers' Circus (iPad App) or another short story
Note: Pages 1-19 of Jay Bean and the Dreamers' Circus are available online. (requires Flash) - Venn Diagram photocopied or displayed for the student (included in PDF)
Procedures
- Make a list of characters for the student to choose from: Jay Bean, Madame Tutu, Sir (major characters), Mom, Dad, Dr. Gordon, Mr. Dax, and Ms. Mary (minor characters).
- Have the student choose two characters from the story to compare and contrast.
- Begin with a pair of Venn diagrams. The Student may use photocopies of Venn diagrams or draw them on paper. Hint: Use old CD's to make circles.
- Title one diagram "Physical Traits" and the other "Personality Traits". Different Venn diagram titles may be used.
- Direct the student as to how many similarities and differences they should come up with (Suggested 3-5).
- Instruct the student to list all the similarities between the characters in the dark-shaded section of both sets of Venn diagrams (Compare).
- Instruct the student to list all the differences between the characters in the light-shaded sections of both sets of Venn diagrams (Contrast).
- Assist the student using the sample questions provided.
JAY BEAN AND THE DREAMERS' CIRCUS PDF available at www.jaybean.com - Copyright © 2011
Character Compare and Contrast
Sample Questions
- How are Madame Tutu (character 1) and Sir (character 2) similar? (regarding physical description)
- How are Madame Tutu (character 1) and Sir (character 2) different? (regarding physical description)
- What do Dr. Gordon (character 1) and Mr. Dax (character 2) have in common? (regarding personalities)
- How is Dr. Gordon's (character 1's) attitude towards dreaming (event) different from Sir's (character 2's) attitude?
- How is Madame Tutu's (character 1's) attitude towards dreaming (event) similar to Sir's (character 2's) attitude?
- How is Dr. Gordon's (character 1's) reaction to Jay's dreams (event) unlike Madame Tutu's (character 2's) reaction?
- Have students work in pairs or small groups to complete the chart. Each student would be responsible for a different section of the chart.
- Pause the story occasionally to let the student work on the chart and to make any necessary clarification..
- Let the student draw a picture of each of the two characters they are comparing.
(Characters 1 & 2 and Event may change based on student and teacher or parent choices)
Suggestions:
JAY BEAN AND THE DREAMERS' CIRCUS PDF available at www.jaybean.com - Copyright © 2011
Character Compare and Contrast
< Return to Learning Matters Download Lesson Plan (PDF) >
