Chapter+9+Summary

__ Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works __ By: Howard Pitler, Elizabeth R. Hubbell, Matt Kuhn, Kim Malenoski Chapter 9: Identifying Similarities and Differences This chapter focuses on the generalization that teaching students to identify similarities and differences in a variety of ways will “enhance understanding of and ability to use knowledge.” This chapter then goes on to show several ways to use technology to allow students to use metaphors, similes, comparing, contrasting, and classifying to identify similarities and differences. The first tool discussed is Microsoft Word. Word can be used to create tables for classification. Teachers can also use Word to create Venn Diagrams, which are a favorite tool of elementary teachers. Another teacher, Mr. Purcell, uses Word to create metaphor and simile puzzles for students to solve.

The next tool discussed to identifying similarities and differences was Microsoft Excel. The text gave several possibilities for using Excel to compare data that has been collected. Excel can be a great tool for classifying and comparing data, as well as using the data to create non-linguistic representations. The drawback of this program is its complexity, so it could require a lot of instruction or set up time, especially for elementary students.

The final tool that was introduced was brainstorming software. The two programs most were Kidspiration for K-5, and Inspiration for higher grades. These programs allow students to identify similarities and differences through tables, Venn Diagrams, comparison templates, and classification templates. One nice feature of Kidspiration is the ability to use pictures to compare and classify. This will allow younger students to learn the skills of identifying similarities and differences before they are proficient with decoding and comprehending text.

Identifying Similarities and Differences

**Comparing, Contrasting, Metaphors, Similes, Classifying**

**Comparing and Contrasting using Venn Diagrams** Microsoft Word Kidspiration and Inspiration

**Other Compare and Contrast** Templates on Inspiration Smart Art on Microsoft Word Brainstorming Software Web2.0 tools bubbl.us

**Classifying using tables** Microsoft Word Templates on Kidspiration and Inspiration

**Comparing Data Collected** Microsoft Excel