Grades 2–3
How-To Writing: Teach the Steps
A how-to planner: what you need, then four steps to draw and write with first, next, then and last.
Writing worksheet · Informational writing
Compare and Contrast Two Things
A Venn diagram plus compare-and-contrast signal words, then a paragraph about how two things are alike and different.
- Grade level
- Grades 4–5
- Time
- About 35 minutes
- Answer key
- Not needed: answers vary
- Kids practice
- Informational writing, Research and note-taking, Text structure, Writing facts in your own words
What kids do
“Pick two things to compare: two animals, two places or two sports. Fill in the diagram, then write about them.”
Printed on the sheet:
- Write how they are alike and how they are different.
Words on this sheet
BothSignal wordsalikealsobuthoweverunlike
Teacher tip
Compare two things kids know well, like cats and dogs, on a big Venn diagram first.
How to use it
- Show a nonfiction book that uses the same structure or text feature first.
- Gather a stack of library books on the topic before kids start.
- Let early writers draw first, then talk, then write.
Watch for
Copying sentences straight from the book. Have kids close the book, then write.
Talk about it
- What is the most interesting fact you found?
- Which sentence on your sheet are you proudest of? Why?
Take it further
Turn finished pages into a class nonfiction book for the library.
US Letter, prints well in black and white. Free for home and classroom use: print as many copies as you need.
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Grades 3–5
Cause and Effect Writing
Two causes and two effects to finish, signal words, then a paragraph that explains a real cause and effect.
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