Respond to Analogies in a Nature Essay

Have students read the essay on page 1 and mark the sentences the questions name before they write. Answer questions 1 to 3 in sentences, then use those answers to plan the paragraph.

Explain the rest stop analogy and the Odysseus allusion in an essay on sandhill cranes in Nebraska. The directions on the page read: Read the essay carefully. Then answer the questions on page 2. An answer key is included.

Yes, both. We made it for 8th grade comprehension exercises, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.

An analogy explains an idea by comparing it to something familiar. In the crane essay, the Platte River is compared to a highway rest stop where travelers eat and refuel before the next stretch.

Ask what the paragraph would lose without it. A short sentence might sum up an idea, a transition might refine what came before, or a sentence might set up a claim that follows.

An analogy compares an idea to something familiar to explain it. An allusion is a reference to a famous story or person, such as Odysseus, that adds meaning or tone.