[hjmcdani]

How do you begin compare and contrast essays with your students? How do you get them started? HELP!

[trexteach]

Start out with modeling how to use a Venn Diagram on a subject they're familiar with as a guided lesson. You might even want to model using two books they know very well.

Display a large Venn Diagram on chart paper, transparency, Smart Board, etc and guide them into giving you information about each of the books for the sides showing the differences. Then help them come up with info on how the books are similar to fill in the intersecting circles.

Once that's finished, Use chart paper or some other source to begin putting the commonalities in paragraph form. You may want to do this one alone. Then see how much they can help you write a paragraph or so on how the books are different. Make sure each paragraph/section begins with a topic sentence.

Once the commonalities and differences have been written in paragraph form, help them see how to write a good summarizing/ concluding sentence.

The next step could be to have them do this with a partner for extra practice. The partners could share their topic then read aloud the compare/contrast paper they wrote. You could critique each one as they go.

Finally, have the students try it on their own. You may want to have them use fairly simple or very familiar topics as they begin this independent activity.

[hjmcdani]

I know you suggested books which would be a great idea. However, as a student teacher I am not sure which or if there are any books all the students would be familiar with. Can you suggest any easier topics that all students could relate to?

[trexteach]

Compare inner and outer planets=Differences: Outer are larger, mostly made of gases, have many moons, farther from the Sun than the inner planets. Inner planets are smaller in size, few or no moons, closer to the Sun, mostly rocky. Similarities: orbit the Sun, part of our Milky Way galaxy, they all appear as stars in the sky from Earth--can't think of anything else.

Compare types of vehicles, cats to dogs, types of food, different holidays, etc.

Hope this helps you out a bit more.

[Wheaten2]

Shoes are a very concrete item to compare. I have students pair up and note the similarities and differences between their shoes: style, color, material, use, heel, lace/velcro, etc. It helps if you have a few categories to focus on because then the students can add the supporting details.

For example: Although Jim and my shoes are both the same color, each has a different purpose. My black shoes are used for dressy occasions and going to work. Jim's black shoes are used for playing basketball and soccer. I definitely wouldn't wear my shoes during gym class, but I'm sure Jim would feel comfortable wearing his to play in P.E.

There is very little "prep" in terms of materials because the kids all have to wear shoes! Because it's a tangible object, the students are more comfortable learning the process instead of focusing on gathering information from text. After this, books or characters might be a logical step.