VENN DIAGRAMS
By: Cressie Weible
Why Use This Instructional Strategy
Students use this strategy to compare and contrast to determine similarities and differences between topics. Venn Diagrams are useful because they're graphic representation that help students to think more analytically.
How To Use This Instructional Strategy
- Compare and contrast the topics- Students brainstorm a list of differences and similarities of two or more topics.
- Draw a Venn diagram- The teacher or student can draw the diagram on paper or on the board and label the circles with the names of the topic
- Complete the Diagram- In the outer parts the students will write words and phrases and draw pictures representing the differences between the topics.
- Summarize the information- The information can be orally discussed or students can write a paragraph and attach to the organizer.
- Display the Venn diagram- The completed diagram can be displayed in the classroom.
Examples of Venn diagrams
Paper plate Venn diagram
This is one way to be creative, using paper plates. The younger kids will like it.
Pictures
Using pictures is another way use Venn diagrams
Charts
Comparing two different stories.
When To Use This Instructional Strategy.
Compare and Contrast a variety of topics.
- Two Characters
- A book and the video version of the book
- A book and its sequel
- Two books with similarities
- Two books by the same author
Also can be used to compare thematic units...
- Life in the middle ages and the life today
- The earth and other planets
- Animals...such as a alligator and a crocodile
- Whales and dolphins
- American Revolution and the Civil War
- Cultures