LS.K.2.2

How do we compare and contrast living organisms?

How can we describe the differences between two animals of the same type? 

Observe a variety of one type of plant (e.g., trees- e.g., pine and oak).

Identify similarities and differences between two plants (e.g., bushes- e.g., rose, holly).

Define and recognize observable characteristics of plants (e.g., color, texture, structure, size, smell, shape).

Compare (similarities and differences) the characteristics of the same type of plant (e.g., one tree has big green leaves and the other tree has big brown leaves; both trees have rough bark) either through direct observations or obtained from media. 

Engaging in Argument from Evidence- Construct an argument with evidence to support comparative statements. 

Asking Questions-  Ask questions based on observations of various plants to obtain more information about their similarities and differences. 

What are the characteristics of ____? 

How are the characteristics of  ___ and ____ the same? 

How are the characteristics of  ___ and ____ different? 

When making observations about the characteristics of animals, the teacher records the observations as data in a T-chart with each animal as the heading of a column. Students analyze the data to make statements comparing the two plants. (e.g., an oak tree and a pine tree). The teacher creates a graphic organizer with an oak tree on one column and a pine tree on the other column. The teacher records the observations as data. After all the observations are given, the teacher says, “Let’s compare these two trees. How are they the same? How are they different?” Students might say, “Both trees have leaves and bark. The oak tree has wide leaves and the pine tree has skinny leaves.”)