Free Printable Compare and Contrast Graphic Organizers

About these compare and contrast handouts

Comparing means finding what is alike and contrasting means finding what is different. Strong compare and contrast writing uses the same features for both items, so a good organizer makes students choose the features first. That is the idea behind the matrix: the left column lists features such as size, habitat or setting, and the two columns beside it hold what is true for each item.

The matrix has five feature rows and two boxes at the bottom for alike and different, which gives a ready outline for a paragraph. The double bubble map is a generic bubble layout with the two items in the center circles, three alike bubbles joining them and four different bubbles on each outside edge. It shows at a glance how many similarities and differences exist. The lined version has a writing area for alike, a split area for only item A and only item B, and a conclusion box that asks what matters most. Use it as a planning page before an essay.

Compare two characters, two stories, two animals, two states of matter or two historical periods. Type the pair in the Comparing box to print it at the top.

How to use them

1. Choose the matrix for structured features, the bubble map for brainstorming, or the lined version for essay planning.
2. Type the pair of items into the Comparing box.
3. For the matrix, agree on the features before filling in each item.
4. Write likenesses and differences in short phrases, not full sentences.
5. Use the conclusion area to decide which point to lead with in your writing.

Classroom tips

• Teach signal words: both, also, similarly for alike; however, but, unlike for different.
• Limit students to three strong features for each item rather than a long list.
• After the bubble map, ask which side has more bubbles and why.
• Turn the lined version into a paragraph: alike sentence, differences sentences, conclusion.

Notes on this page

• The double bubble map here is a generic layout. It is not affiliated with any branded thinking-map program.

Last reviewed 2026-10-03. Handout Hero designs are original and made for this site. They are general reference material; check your own school, district or tradition where it matters.