Subjects
Grade
Brief Description
Students in grades 2-4 read online information about crocodiles and alligators, write down the similarities and differences, and then create a Venn Diagram.
Objectives
Students will:Keywords
Venn Diagram, comparison contrast, alligators, crocodiles
Lesson Plan
This lesson can be used either to introduce or reinforce Venn Diagrams and the concept of compare/contrast.
Begin by asking two students to stand up. Ask the class to name three things about their appearances that both students have in common. Examples might include, "Both have on socks" or "Both have on white sneakers." Write those ideas on the chalkboard. Then ask the class to identify three differences in their appearances, such as "Marta has blue hair bands, but Jessica has a red headband." Write those down as well. You then either can draw a Venn Diagram yourself and show students where each concept fits in the diagram, or -- if this is a review -- you can ask students to draw the diagram or walk you through a drawing.
Next, tell students they are going to practice finding differences and similarities with a subject they can "sink their teeth into" -- crocodiles and alligators.
Provide students with the directions below: (Instructions either can be demonstrated aloud for the entire class or typed out and put beside classroom computers.
To make this activity easier for younger students, go to the site on each computer before class, and then drag the panda icon (next to the URL in the Address blank) to the computer's Desktop. That puts a shortcut on the Desktop, so students only need to double-click that icon to go to the Web site. Note that you can even click once on the shortcut and rename it Crocodile or Alligator to make it easier for students to read.
Alternatively, have students go to http://www.educationworld.com/
tools_templates/index.shtml#graphicOrganizers Graphic Organizers, click 2-Circle Venn Diagram, click File > Save As, and save the document to their Desktops. Students now can type in that Venn Diagram and save it to their computers.
Assessment
Students are assessed on theirLesson Plan Source
Education World
Submitted By
Lorrie Jackson
National Standards
SCIENCE
GRADES K - 4
NS.K-4.1 Science as Inquiry
NS.K-4.3 Life Science