Comparison explores similarities and differences between two or more items. The process has three parts.

1. Chooses appropriate characteristics for comparison.
2. Identifies similarities and differences among items, using the characteristics.
3. Develops conclusions from the comparison.

4.  Selects important features or attributes of the items that can provide insight into the nature of those items being compared.
3.  Selects characteristics that can provide for a meaningful comparison.
2.  Selects characteristics that provide for a partial comparison of the items.
1.  Selects characteristics that are not important and don’t lead to insightful conclusions.

4.  Accurately selects all major similarities and differences for each item.
3.  Selects similarities and differences for each item.
2.  Makes some errors in identifying major similarities and differences.
1.  Makes many errors in identifying major similarities and differences.

4.  Draws insightful and thoughtful conclusions from the similarities and differences, usually highlighting either one or the other.
3.  Draws some thoughtful conclusions from the comparison.
2.  Isn’t clear about the significance of the comparison.
1.  Does not get far beyond noting similarities and differences.