Compare two versions of a fairy tale: a 2nd grade reading activity
What it is: a 2nd grade reading activity where students hear two versions of the same fairy tale, such as a classic one and one from another culture or point of view, and compare the characters, setting, problem and ending.
Time: about 40 minutes. Grade: 2nd grade.
Materials: two picture book versions of one tale (for example two versions of Cinderella from different countries, or a classic tale and a retelling from the villain's view), and a comparison chart with rows for characters, setting, problem and ending.
- Read the first version aloud. Fill the first column of the chart together.
- Read the second version on the same day or the next.
- Partners fill the second column, then circle what is the same in both and underline what is different.
- Discuss: "Why do you think the stories are different? What does the setting change?"
- Each student writes one sentence: "Both stories ___, but ___."
Differentiation: students who need support compare only characters and endings. Students who are ready say which version they prefer and give two reasons. English learners can use the chart with pictures.
Quick check: ask a student to name one thing that is the same in both versions and one thing that is different.
For more ideas at this grade, browse the other free activities on the Hub.
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About this resource
- Shared by
- @UpOnlyLearning · Curriculum team
- Posted
- Oct 30, 2026
- Type
- Lesson plan
- Grade
- Grades K–2
- Subject
- Reading
- Language
- English
- License
- Free for classroom, co-op and tutoring use. Please don't resell.