How would you plan a lesson for a standard about comparing and contrasting key points from 2 different mediums for older students?

How do you start off science in your classroom? Do you have an introductory lesson you can share?
I like to use the children's book titled, "What is Science?" as it shows children that science can be lots of things and that they are already scientists!

To find ways to make learning history more appealing to the students, I try to find things that they find familiar and learn the history behind it. Whether it is a celebration, observance, sport, word, or food. This one was particularly interesting because of the fable and the movie Shrek. The history of the Gingerbread Man is a fun way to guide students in asking the question, "Why?".

How would you plan a lesson for having students evaluate the significance of key individuals leading to the Civil War? (eg Henry Clay, John C. Calhoun, Fredrick Douglass, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Abraham Lincoln)

How would you plan a lesson for a standard about teaching second grade reading?

What are some ways you incorporate play into your day?

Does anyone have good texts or assessment to help me teach 9th grade reading literature: Compare and contrast the representation of a subject or key scene in two artistic mediums, including what is emphasized absent in each treatment.