Graphic Organizer: Compare and Contrast
Join Our Community
Access this resource now. Get up to three resources every month for free.
Choose from thousands of articles, lessons, guides, videos, and printables.
Compare and contrast is a powerful strategy that helps students make sense of new information by identifying similarities and differences. Whether you're teaching literature, science, history, or even math, encouraging students to compare and contrast can deepen their understanding and improve critical thinking skills.
One of the best ways to guide students through this process is by using a compare and contrast graphic organizer. These simple yet effective tools help students visually organize their thoughts, making connections clearer and learning more meaningful.
Why Use a Compare & Contrast Graphic Organizer?
- Clarifies Thinking – Helps students break down information into manageable parts.
- Supports Writing – Gives students a structured way to plan their responses.
- Engages All Learners – Provides a visual approach that benefits different learning styles.
- Works Across Subjects – Can be used for comparing book characters, historical events, scientific concepts, or math strategies.
How to Use One in Your Classroom
- Choose a Purpose – Are students comparing two characters? Two types of animals? Different problem-solving methods? Define the goal first.
- Model the Process – Show students how to fill in the organizer using a familiar example. Think aloud as you compare and contrast.
- Let Students Practice – Provide guided and independent practice opportunities. Pair students up to discuss their findings.
- Apply the Learning – Use the completed organizer as a springboard for discussion, writing assignments, or deeper analysis.
Graphic organizers make learning visual, structured, and engaging, helping students develop stronger comprehension and reasoning skills.
See below for a variety of compare & contrast graphic organizer templates to use in your classroom.