Minds On
Defining text-to-text connections
Think about the texts you have recently read (story, book or audiobook, song, documentary, etc.). How do the ideas in one text remind you of another text?
Press ‘Tip’ to reveal a tip about text-to-text connections.
TIP: You could compare the story elements including, character traits, setting, plot, key themes or messages, and the like. That said, you can make connections between different genres as well!
Consider the following questions:
- How is this text similar to another text you have read on the same topic?
- How is this text different from another text you have read on the same topic?
- Consider the author's approach to the topic. How does it differ from the approach in other texts you have read on this topic?
What other connections can you make between two different texts?
Use the Text-to-Text Connections Chart to record your ideas or another method of your choice.
Text-to-Text Connections Chart List of books we have read in the past and what we have connected them to |
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Text 1 | Text 2 |
Press the ‘Activity’ button to access the Text-to-Text Connections Chart.
Action
Similarities and differences
Now that you have reviewed how to make text-to-text connections, let's practice!
Select two news articles on the same (or a similar) topic. How do the ideas in one text remind you of the other text?
Things to keep in mind:
- There are different ways to make text-to-text connections. For example, by topic, events or issues, place, and people.
- Be sure to compare and contrast the two texts. For example, what do the two texts have in common, but also how are they different?
- Explain why each text connection is important. Why do these similarities and differences matter? How does it deepen your understanding of the text(s)?
You can record your ideas using a method of your choice. You can also complete the Making Connections Chart in your notebook or by using the following fillable and printable document.
Making Connections Text-to-Text |
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Topic/Subject Matter: |
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Article #1: |
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Article #2: |
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Similarities |
Differences |
Press the ‘Activity’ button to access the Making Connections Chart.
Consolidation
Bringing it all together
Use the following questions to reflect on making text-to-text connections. Record your responses using a method of your choice.
- How did the connections you made help you to understand the topic you selected?
- Why is it important to make text-to-text connections?
Present your learning using a method of your choice. You can create a poster, a slideshow presentation, or an audio or video recording. It's up to you!

Reflection
As you read the following descriptions, select the one that best describes your current understanding of the learning in this activity. Press the corresponding button once you have made your choice.
I feel...
Now, expand on your ideas by recording your thoughts using a voice recorder, speech-to-text, or writing tool.
When you review your notes on this learning activity later, reflect on whether you would select a different description based on your further review of the material in this learning activity.