Identifying+Similarities+and+Differences

= Identifying Similarities and Differences = The ability to break a concept into its similar and dissimilar characteristics allows students to understand (and often solve) complex problems by analyzing them in a more simple way. Teachers can either directly present similarities and differences, accompanied by deep discussion and inquiry, or simply ask students to identify similarities and differences on their own. While teacher-directed activities focus on identifying specific items, student-directed activities encourage variation and broaden understanding, research shows. Research also notes that graphic forms are a good way to represent similarities and differences.

Have students use comparing, classifying, metaphors, and analogies to compare similarities and differences and create visual representations with graphic organizers. When presenting information give students a model of the steps for engaging in the process or use a familiar context to teach students these steps. Guide students as they engage in this process. Gradually give less structure and less guidance.

**Comparing and Classifying**

 * Bubbl.us: @https://bubbl.us/
 * EdHelper Graphic Organizers: @http://www.edhelper.com/teachers/graphic_organizers.htm
 * Enchanted Learning Graphic Organizers: @http://www.enchantedlearning.com/graphicorganizers/
 * Exploratree: @http://www.exploratree.org.uk/
 * Flowchart.com: @http://flowchart.com/mindmap/
 * Gliffy (creates diagrams): @http://www.gliffy.com/products/online/
 * Graphic Organizers from teAchnology: http://www.teach-nology.com/web_tools/graphic_org/
 * Graphic.org - Graphic Organizers: @http://www.graphic.org/goindex.html
 * Grapholite: @http://grapholite.com/
 * Mind42 (mind mapping): @http://www.mind42.com/
 * Mindmeister (brainstorming & mapping): @http://www.mindmeister.com/
 * Mindmodo (mindmapping): @http://www.mindomo.com/
 * NCREL Graphic Organizers: @http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/issues/students/learning/lr1grorg.htm
 * Popplet: @http://popplet.com/
 * SimpleMind (desktop & mobile): @http://www.simpleapps.eu/simplemind/
 * SpiderScribe.net: @http://www.spiderscribe.net/
 * Squareleaf (virtual sticky notes): @http://www.squareleaf.net/
 * Webspiration (web-based version of Inspiration and Kidspiration): @http://www.mywebspiration.com
 * Write Design - Graphic Organizers: @http://www.writedesignonline.com/organizers/

**Metaphors and Analogies**

 * Analogy Games: @http://www.vocabulary.co.il/analogies/
 * GRE Verbal Analogies: @http://learnwordlist.com/tests/gre-verbal-analogy-tests
 * Have Fun Teaching - Analogy worksheets: @http://www.havefunteaching.com/language-worksheets/analogy
 * Metaphor List: @http://www.metaphorlist.net/
 * Metaphor Lists: @http://knowgramming.com/metaphor_lists.htm
 * Sadlier-Oxford - Analogies: @http://www.sadlier-oxford.com/phonics/analogies/analogiesx.htm
 * SuperTeacher - Analogies Worsheets: @http://www.superteacherworksheets.com/analogies.html