Venn Diagrams
Purpose
Venn diagrams are graphic organizers that show how two things are similar and different from each other. This technique is particularly good for compare/contrast writing.
How
- Draw 2 overlapping circles on a piece of paper — there should be a middle overlapping portion between the 2 circles
- Above each circle, write down a few words to describe an idea, concept, or object
- List qualities unique to each idea in their corresponding circles
- Shared qualities go in the overlapping middle
See it in Action!
Watch
Venn diagrams: one kind of graphic organizer
This video introduces Venn diagrams as a graphic organizer to compare and contrast two ideas. It shows how similarities and differences can be visualized to spark writing ideas.
Timestamp: 0:45 – 2:14
Watch here
The Career Venn Diagram: Comedy in Place (E61)
This short clip uses a Venn diagram to talk about career choices. It’s a light-hearted example that helps make the concept more relatable.
Watch here
Add Complexity
Using a Venn Diagram to write a response