A Venn Diagram is used to help students (individually or collaboratively) organize their thoughts as they compare and contrast texts or other items. It is helpful for students to complete the Description Organizer prior to completing a Venn Diagram. When completing the Venn Diagram, differences are recorded in the outside circles and similarities are recorded in the areas where the circles overlap. After completing the Venn Diagram, students should demonstrate their understanding of the similarities and differences in writing, orally, or through another appropriate manner.