Compare and Contrast Lesson Plans

Students identify the characteristics for each season. In this weather lesson, students read the book Seasons and brainstorm how the four seasons are alike and different. Students complete a compare/contrast chart.

Students explore nonfiction writing by recording comparisons on a  graphic organizer. In this journalism instructional activity, students read two separate nonfiction articles and discuss the reasons why the articles were written in the first place. Students compare the similar articles side by side and utilize a graphic organizer to identify the similarities and slight differences.

First graders listen to and examine picture books about the rainforest. They discuss the animals of the rainforest and complete a Venn diagram comparing rainforest and domestic animals. They write a paragraph about the similarities and differences.

Fifth graders select, read, and compare and contrast a fiction and nonfiction book. They identify the genre of fiction or nonfiction book on a genre list form, then read the two books. Next, they complete a compare/contrast chart, and write the keywords that describe the plot, characters, and settings from the two books.

Young scholars compare and contrast their perspectives on raising gorillas in captivity with their peers and with scientists. In this perspective analysis lesson, students discuss whether or not gorillas should be in captivity. Young scholars watch a video on the topic and discuss perspectives on the topic. Students complete a compare and contrast perspectives worksheet.

Third graders observe moths and butterflies, recording their likes and differences. They write a comparison/contrast essay about the two.

Fourth graders develop vocabulary to aid in comprehension as they read the novel, Class President.

Students compare and contrast the experience of the migrant worker as depicted in The Grapes of Wrath with the experiences of migrant children as depicted in the narratives and poems provided.

Complete a pre-assessment sheet using elements of a story. Afterward, read two short stories or poems, and find the similarities and differences using a Venn diagram. Then partners will reread the stories or poems, adding notes to their Venn diagram. In the end, they should be able to demonstrate comprehension through comparing and contrasting literary elements.

Compare and contrast two topics with your class. They will pick a topic of their choosing, create color-coded Venn diagram to visually organize their information, share diagrams with classmates, and write well-organized essay on similarities and differences in two chosen topics. Modifications can be made for younger learners.