Paired Passages, a Useful Tool for Reading Comprehension

Paired passages can be a useful tool for teaching reading comprehension to older elementary students. What are paired passages and how do you use them? Paired passages are two short texts that share a similar theme or topic and can be used to help students compare and contrast information, make connections, and infer information.

Using Paired Passages for Reading Comprehension

Select two short reading passages that share a similar theme or topic. The passages should be challenging enough to engage students, but not so difficult that they become frustrated. Have students read both passages and then have them complete a variety of comprehension questions, such as multiple choice, short answer, and open-ended questions.

Using Comprehension Questions to Compare Texts

Use graphic organizers, such as Venn diagrams, to help students compare and contrast the information in the paired passages. Provide opportunities for students to make connections between the paired passages, and ask them to infer information based on what they have read.

Small Group Instruction to Help with Paired Passages

Provide ongoing support and guidance for the students as they work on the paired passages. This can include mini-lessons, individual conferences, and small-group instruction. Continuously evaluate the student's progress and make adjustments to the paired passages as needed.

Encourage students to use their comprehension skills in their writing and speaking, and provide them with feedback on their usage.

Use the paired passages as a formative assessment tool to check for understanding, and to help guide instruction. They are a great way to help prepare for state testing and get your students the practice that they need for the test.

These passages can be a great way to help students make connections between texts and improve their reading comprehension skills.

Here are some resources that target specific reading skills. If students are struggling with specific reading comprehension skills, you can use a mini-lesson to target that skill. Or, you can assign them a reading comprehension passage for extra practice.

Paired Passages for Your Grade Level

Paired passages are available for grades 2-8. There are different sets available for grades 2-3, 4-5, and 6th-8th. Purchase the set you need or bundle for even bigger savings. Click on the pictures below to go to each resource.