During Reading
Say: This book compares and contrasts the planets in our solar system. As you read, I want you to think about what is the same and what is different among the planets, because we will discuss them when you have finished reading. But first, I want to you to read the introduction to find out the comparative sizes of some of the things in our solar system. Remember to use the illustrations, photos, and diagrams to assist you with your understanding.
When children have read the introduction, ask: Can you now imagine the relative difference in size between the sun and our moon?
Have children read pages 6 and 7.
Say: Read the section on the sun. Be prepared to discuss what new information you learn from reading these two pages.
Have children read page 8.
Say: As you read page 8, I want you to think about what information is being compared and contrasted. When you have finished the page, you should be able to answer these questions. Which is closest to the sun, Mercury or Earth? Which planet takes the longest to orbit the sun, Mercury or Earth? Which planet has the longest day, Mercury or Earth?
Have children read the section on Venus.
Say: Read the section on Venus and then be prepared to compare and contrast some facts about Venus, Earth, and Mercury.
Have children read the rest of the book independently. Have them mark with a sticky note any word or phrase they do not understand or cannot pronounce. You can clarify these later. During this time, you may choose to work with another group. Alternatively, you may wish to work individually with some children to monitor their oral reading and comprehension of parts of the text.
Say: I want you to finish reading the book at your own pace. As you read, I want you to stop at the end of each section to think about the new information that you are learning. Pay particular attention to the similarities and differences among the planets. When you have finished reading, we are going to compare and contrast the planets in our solar system.
Using the Worksheet
Introduce and explain the Worksheet. Have children start work on the Worksheet as they finish reading the text.
Go to After Reading
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