Are you looking for some new activities to add to your lesson plans? Inspire your students this holiday season with these 10 Christmas Compare-Contrast Writing Prompts. Whether you’re looking for quick morning reviews, entry or exit activities, or even assignments for learning centers, these prompts are perfect. Plus, they’re available in printable and Google Slides versions, making them versatile for any classroom setting.
Why Compare-and-Contrast?
Compare-and-contrast activities help students develop analytical skills. By examining similarities and differences, students learn to organize their thoughts, improve their writing, and better understand the subject matter. And what better time to practice these skills than during the festive season?
Get the Handouts in the Winter Vault
Want to access the handouts for these prompts? They’re available in the Winter Vault, a special collection of resources for the holiday season. The Winter Vault is packed with exclusive materials to help create a festive and educational atmosphere in your classroom. Click the button below to sign up and get instant access!
Christmas Compare-Contrast Writing Prompts
1. Tree Decorating
Ricky and Matthew were decorating the family Christmas tree. Ricky worked steadily from the top to the bottom, while Matthew spent time finding a step ladder, delaying his decorating. How are Ricky and Matthew similar and different?
Included Activity: Students write a short paragraph explaining how Ricky and Matthew are similar and different.
2. Sadie
Alyssa wants her dog Sadie to look festive with a Santa hat, while her brother Jacob prefers no costume. However, Jacob still helps by bathing Sadie. Who did a better job preparing Sadie for the holidays, and why?
Included Activity: Write a paragraph explaining which character’s approach was more effective.
3. Packages under the Tree
Tiffany is curious about two presents under the tree: one is large and heavy, and the other is small and light. Both are beautifully wrapped. Compare and contrast these packages using a Venn diagram.
Included Activity: Students use a Venn diagram to compare the packages.
4. Cookies for Santa
Emily can’t decide between leaving chocolate chip cookies or gingerbread men for Santa. Both have unique ingredients that make them delicious. How are these two types of cookies alike and different?
Included Activity: Students list how the cookies are alike and different.
5. A Gift for Mom
Sally saves her allowance to buy a gift, while Meg earns extra money just before Christmas. In what ways are Sally and Meg alike and different in their approaches to buying gifts for their mom?
Included Activity: Students compare and contrast the methods the girls use.
6. Christmas in Alaska
Alaskans celebrate Christmas with unique traditions, like singing Gristuusaaq suu’uq and eating fish pie. Compare and contrast an Alaskan Christmas with a Christmas celebration in other states.
Included Activity: Students use a Venn diagram to list the similarities and differences.
7. Christmas Around the World
Christmas traditions vary worldwide. For example, Australians decorate Christmas bushes, while Brazilians use cotton on trees to simulate snow. Compare and contrast Christmas tree traditions in two different countries.
Suggested Activity: Students use a T-chart-like table to explain some traditions.
8. Tree Toppers
Families often debate whether to top the Christmas tree with a star or an angel. Both have symbolic meanings and different designs. What characteristics do these toppers have in common, and how do they differ?
Included Activity: Students write descriptions of the tree toppers.
9. Christmas Compare-and-Contrast Movies
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” explores the true meaning of Christmas, while “Elf” is a lighthearted comedy about a human raised by elves. Why should both movies be on your holiday watchlist?
Included Activity: Students write a paragraph explaining why people should watch both movies.
10. Christmas Compare-and-Contrast Songs
Choose two Christmas songs with similar themes, like “Jingle Bells” vs. “Silver Bells” or “Winter Wonderland” vs. “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas.” What do these songs have in common, and how do they differ?
Included Activity: Create a playlist with your chosen songs and share it with your classmates.
Printable and Digital Versions Available
These prompts are flexible, with printable handouts and Google Slides versions available. Whether teaching in person or remotely, you can easily incorporate these activities into your lesson plans.
Get the Handouts in the Winter Vault
Looking for the handouts that accompany these prompts? You’ll find them in the Winter Vault, a treasure trove of holiday-themed resources designed to bring fun and learning into your classroom. Simply click the button below to sign up and gain immediate access!
Christmas is a wonderful time to incorporate fun and meaningful activities into your classroom. These compare-and-contrast prompts will engage your students and help them develop critical thinking and writing skills. Download the handouts from the Winter Vault and bring some holiday cheer into your lessons!
1 comment
Thank you! This looks great/ love your blog so many resources