Paired Texts > Do People Really Change?

by Jessica McBirney 2020

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.

A Quick Note on Getting Better at Difficult Things
A Quick Note on Getting Better at Difficult Things
Ta-Nehisi Coates

In "A Quick Note on Getting better at Difficult Things," Ta-Nehisi Coates shares his own experiences struggling with a new skill and why it's important to do so.

Pair “A Quick Note on Getting Better at Difficult Things” with “Do People Really Change?” to provide students with an example of a “growth mindset.” Ask students to discuss how Ta-Nehisi Coates’ approach to learning French is an example of a “growth mindset.” Based on the two texts, when working to improve a skill, how important is it to feel confident in your ability to improve?

6th Grade Opinion 690L
Drying Out
Drying Out
Cynthia Rylant

Despite losing what he cared about most, a veteran with a drinking problem finds the will to keep going after finding some unexpected friends.

Pair “Do People Really Change?” with “Drying Out” and ask students to compare Jack’s experience with the information provided in the article. Would you consider Jack “a changed man”? What category of personality most influenced his change in the story? Do you think Jack will continue on his new path, or will he resort to his old ways? Explain your thinking.

6th Grade Short Story 810L
¿La gente realmente cambia?
¿La gente realmente cambia?
Jessica McBirney

This text is available in both English and Spanish. Click here to view this text in the other language.

6th Grade Informational Text 980L