Compare and contrast
Compare and contrast is a reading and writing skill where you look at two or more things and show how they are the same and how they are different.
To COMPARE means to show how two or more things are the same. To CONTRAST means to show how two or more things are different. We often use graphic organizers like Venn Diagrams or lists to show the big ideas in comparing and contrasting. Using charts and lists can be We do this in reading to see what an author wants us to learn, or to look carefully at a text. For example, in an article about crocodiles and alligators, we can use charts and Venn Diagrams to pull out the main ideas and compare and contrast the two animals. We do this in writing as well. Using diagrams and charts can help you organize your thinking before you write, especially for persuasive writing, where you want to make sure you give a good argument. Often when we compare two things, we can use them in a simile or metaphor. More information about similes and metaphors can be found here. |