Comparing and Contrasting

In class, we have been comparing and contrasting. When we compare, we look at how things are similar and different. Fourth graders have to be able to explain how items are similar and different.



We started out by comparing two kinds of candy. Our first step was to generate criteria--what would we look at to compare? Working together, students came up with ideas like size, color, wrappers, and taste.

Our next step was to explore. Students unwrapped the candy and looked at it closely. By taking the time to look carefully, they found new details that they didn't expect to find! (For example, one of the candies is different in the center.)


Finally, students recorded their ideas on their charts. They used their charts to write paragraphs about the similarities and differences. They tried to use compare and contrast clue words--however, like, on the other hand, also, too, both, similarity, difference--to help make their ideas clear.

Learning about comparing and contrasting is important work. As students move into the upper grades, they need to be able to quickly find similarities and differences.

At home, you can try:
-Look at how two items are similar and different. Try examining two different kinds of fruit from the grocery store. What criteria could you use to compare?
-Practice comparing and contrasting different television shows. What criteria would you use? How are they similar? How are they different?
-Try comparing and contrasting two different kinds of candy. What do you notice?
-Listen for the comparing and contrasting clue words. How are they used? When do people use the phrase "on the other hand"?