SSAT Elementary Level Reading

A friendly introduction to reading comprehension skills for the SSAT Elementary Level.

Understanding Main IdeasFinding DetailsUnderstanding Vocabulary in Context
Making InferencesIdentifying Author’s PurposeComparing and Contrasting
Reading Everyday TextsDiscussing What You ReadUsing Reading to Learn New Things
Read the Questions FirstUse Process of Elimination
Understanding Main I...Finding DetailsUnderstanding Vocabu...Making InferencesIdentifying Author’s...Comparing and Contra...Reading Everyday Tex...Discussing What You ...Using Reading to Lea...Read the Questions F...Use Process of Elimi...
Advanced Topics

Comparing and Contrasting

What Does It Mean to Compare and Contrast?

To compare is to look for similarities (how things are alike). To contrast is to spot differences (how things are different).

How to Compare and Contrast

  • Look for words like “both,” “also,” “similar,” or “different.”
  • Make a list or draw a Venn diagram.
  • Ask, “What is the same? What is different?”

Why It Helps

Comparing and contrasting helps you understand information better and see connections between ideas.

Real-World Uses

You compare and contrast when choosing between two games, deciding what to wear, or picking a snack!

Examples

  • Two stories about dogs: One is about a lost dog, and the other is about a dog who helps on a farm. You can compare how both dogs are brave, but contrast their adventures.

  • Comparing apples and oranges: Both are fruits, but apples are usually sweet and crunchy, while oranges are juicy and tangy.

In a Nutshell

Comparing finds similarities, contrasting finds differences.

Key Terms

Compare
To find similarities.
Contrast
To find differences.
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Reading Everyday Texts