Comparing/ Contrasting

Comparing is to explain how two things are alike/similar. Contrasting is to explain how two things are different.

Activity #1: Use a memory game (Printable games: Safari Cards, Community Helper Cards), flashcards that have doubles, or any pictures that you have doubles of
- For an easier game, use less cards. For a more challenging game, use more cards.
- For each turn, ask your child if the two pictures are the same or different.
- If the child understands the concepts of same/different, expand by discussing how the pictures are the same and how they are different.

Activity #2: Use the worksheet to write or discuss how the stated items are the same/different.

Copy of Comparing and Contrasting Worksheet.pdf

Activity #3: Use the Venn Diagram to write how two items/concepts (e.g., computer/tablet, Spring/Summer) are the same/different; or just use the Venn diagram as a visual to discuss the similarities/differences.

Venn Diagram.pdf

Activity #4: Using items around the house. Gather paired items and talk about them, labeling size, shape, what it is used for, what it is made of, etc. After discussion, ask the child, "What is the same about the two items?" Once they have mention a similarity, then ask, "What is different about the two items?" Example: pen/pencil. Same -- write with it. Different -- one has lead, one has ink.

Do this for each pair of items.

shoe/sandal book/newspaper plastic cup/glass fork/spoon

towel/washcloth milk/water toothbrush/toothpaste foot/hand

blanket/pillow telephone/TV remote lamp/flashlight door/window

Can you think of some object pairs of your own? Do this activity 3 separate times. The last time you do it, don't talk about the items first. Simply show the items and ask the questions. See if the child has learned from previous activities.

Page updated

Report abuse