Analogy as Strategy

Using Analogies in Science Class

Developing analogies can be a powerful learning strategy! It helps students recall information and make conceptual understanding "stick." An effective analogy can be used as a model for an unfamiliar system or phenomena, especially one that is unobservable. When analogies are employed in science, we must take care to ensure the analogies do not support misconceptions. Of course, like any model, it's essential to analyze its components and limitations.

The Earth as a sushi roll.

I have included analogies into a Word Study activity I've implemented this year; for selected vocabulary words, I have students complete a Word Study in their digital Science Notebook using the template below. In the "Connection" section many students opt to share an analogy to help make a connection to an unfamiliar word. 

The Word Study (not completed). Note: SWI stands for Structured Word Inquiry.

The Word Study (completed)

Student Work Samples

In my 5th grade Earth and Environmental Science class, I recently challenged students to come up with creative analogies comparing Earth to another layered object in an annotated drawing. Below are some samples of excellent student work. After completing their Earth analogy, students were encouraged to analyze the benefits and limitations of their model in their science notebooks. The activity was a great way for students to showcase their artistic talents while sense-making, and students appreciated the choice they had in selecting their analogy.

Fellow science teachers, how might you incorporate analogies in your teaching? 

The Earth as a chocolate candy.

The Earth as a golf ball.

The Earth as an oyster.

The Earth as a fruit.