Why We Read Multiple Texts on One Topic

Khan Academy

This educational video uses a humorous and engaging approach to explain the importance of consulting multiple sources when researching a topic. Narrated in a conversational style with simple animated illustrations, the video uses the example of researching "deadly animals" to demonstrate why relying on a single text is insufficient. The narrator outlines three primary reasons for reading multiple texts: gaining expert knowledge by combining details, verifying facts to determine truth, and gathering diverse evidence to support an argument. The video dives into critical literacy skills such as synthesizing information, cross-referencing to check for outdated or incorrect data, and identifying author bias. It illustrates how different authors might approach the same subject—like deadly animals—from opposing angles (e.g., how to hunt them vs. how to protect them), affecting the information presented. The content emphasizes that reading is an active process of comparing, contrasting, and evaluating information to form one's own educated opinion. For educators, this resource is an excellent tool for introducing research skills, media literacy, and synthesis to upper elementary students. It simplifies complex concepts like corroboration and perspective-taking into concrete examples. Teachers can use this video to launch units on informational writing, debate preparation, or science research projects, helping students move beyond surface-level reading to deep comprehension and critical analysis.