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Paired Texts > Aly’s Discovery

by Jacqueline Adams

2015

We've identified these texts as great options for text pairings based on similar themes, literary devices, topic, or writing style. Supplement your lesson with one or more of these options and challenge students to compare and contrast the texts. To assign a paired text, click on the text to go to its page and click the "Assign Text" button there.

5th Grade Fable 880L
The Lion and the Mouse
  • Aesop
  • 620-560 BCE

In this classic fable by Aesop, the ancient Greek storyteller, a tiny mouse proves to a powerful lion that she is greater than she seems.

Pair “The Lion and the Mouse” with “Aly’s Discovery” and ask students to discuss the themes of friendship in the two texts. How is the lion and mouse’s friendship an unlikely one? How does their unlikely friendship compare to Aly and Rachel’s? Ask students to compare how the friendships in the two texts develop.

6th Grade Fantasy 980L
“The Worst Birthday” from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
  • J.K. Rowling
  • 1998

After a year spent at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizadry, Harry Potter returns to his non-magical family for the summer, where he must endure his family treating him badly because they fear his powers.

Pair “‘The Worst Birthday’ from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” with “Aly’s Discovery” and ask students to discuss how the characters from the two texts feel isolated. How do Harry’s feelings of isolation compare to Aly’s? Why is Aly able to resolve her loneliness and boredom, while Harry is not?