Comparing and Contrasting Characters
This worksheet helps fifth-grade students practice comparing and contrasting characters from a short story, focusing on their traits, motivations, and actions.
Includes
Standards
Topics
Comparing and Contrasting Characters
Name:
Date:
Score:
Read the story below carefully. Then, answer the questions that follow by comparing and contrasting the characters.
The New Neighbors
Lily peered out her window, watching the moving truck pull away from the house next door. “New neighbors!” she exclaimed to her older brother, Tom. Tom grunted, his eyes glued to his video game. Lily, ever curious, raced outside. She saw a girl her age, Maya, struggling with a box that was almost as big as she was. “Need help?” Lily offered with a bright smile. Maya, a bit shy, nodded, her dark braids bouncing as she tried to lift the box again. Together, they managed to get it onto the porch.
Later that afternoon, Lily invited Maya to play catch in the yard. Maya was hesitant. “I’m not very good at sports,” she mumbled, looking down at her shoes. Lily, who loved all kinds of games, encouraged her. “It’s okay! We can just practice.” Maya reluctantly joined. Meanwhile, Tom had finally finished his game. He spotted the two girls and rolled his eyes. “Playing baby games?” he scoffed, heading inside to read his comic books. Lily ignored him, laughing as Maya finally caught a ball. Maya, despite her shyness, found herself smiling too.
1. Which of the following best describes a similarity between Lily and Maya?
They both enjoy playing video games.
They are both curious about new things.
They both helped move a heavy box.
They both prefer reading comic books.
2. What is a key difference in personality between Lily and Tom?
Lily is shy, while Tom is outgoing.
Lily is helpful, while Tom is indifferent.
Lily enjoys sports, while Tom dislikes them.
Lily is quiet, while Tom is loud.
3. Maya was about playing catch, but Lily was and encouraged her.
4. While Lily was excited to meet new neighbors, Tom seemed and more interested in his .
5. Both Lily and Maya were eager to play sports at first.
True
False
6. Describe one way Lily and Maya are similar and one way they are different, based on their actions in the story.
7. How do Tom's actions and words contrast with Lily's actions and words when interacting with Maya?