|
Identifying Similarities and Differences |
|
|
|
|
"The ability to break a concept into its similar and
dissimilar
characteristics allows students to understand (and often solve) complex
problems by analyzing them in a more simple way. Teachers can either
directly present similarities and differences, accompanied by deep
discussion and inquiry, or simply ask students to identify similarities
and differences on their own. While teacher-directed activities focus
on identifying specific items, student-directed activities encourage
variation and broaden understanding, research shows. Research also
notes that graphic forms are a good way to represent similarities and
differences.
Applications:
- Use Venn diagrams or charts to compare and classify items.
- Engage students in comparing, classifying, and creating
metaphors and analogies."
(Source: Getting
Acquainted with the Essential Nine by Laura Varlas. ASCD Curriculum Update. Winter 2002)
Research
Examples: Venn Diagrams
- “Where do the numbers 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
belong on this Venn diagram?”

- Compare the characteristics of plant and animal cells
- Compare
the religion of the Aztec and Maya
- Compare the characters of Jezebel and Elijah
- Compare the food of early American pioneers and people
today
Scaffolding:
At first, fill out parts of the diagram for the students
Example: Comparison Matrix
|
Characteristics
|
Aztec
|
Maya
|
Inca
|
|
|
FOOD
|
|
|
|
Similarity
|
|
|
|
|
Difference
|
|
RELIGION
|
|
|
|
Similarity
|
|
|
|
|
Difference
|
|
<student choice>
|
|
|
|
Similarity
|
|
|
|
|
Difference
|
Scaffolding: As
learning develops include student choice.
Resources
Content adapted
from Getting
Acquainted with the Essential Nine by Laura Varlas. ASCD Curriculum Update. Winter
2002; and research by the Northwest Regional
Educational Laboratory, Portland, Oregon.
|