Different authors often write about the same event or subject differently. When you read two different descriptions of the same subject or event, you can learn different things. This helps you compare and contrast the ideas and information in the texts.
- Point of View
- The point of view of a passage is who is presenting the information in the text. Some authors share their ideas in first person point of view, and some passages share others’ ideas in third person point of view.
- First Person
- First person point of view is used when a passage is presented from the author’s point of view. Passages written in first person point of view use words like “I,” “we,” and “us.” This is also called a firsthand account.
- Third Person
- Third person point of view is used when a passage presents thoughts, feelings, or ideas that are not the author’s. Passages written in third person point of view use words like “he,” “she,” and “them.” This is also called a secondhand account.
When comparing and contrasting two passages, look for:
- The most important points and details in both texts
- The ideas or details found only in one text and not in the other
- Whether a text has more facts and details, or feelings and thoughts
- Whether a text uses the pronouns “I” or “we”
7th Grade Reading - Compare and Contrast Informational Texts Lesson