How does Mr. Graff's use of Venn diagrams benefit his students at the start of a new social studies lesson?

Mr. Graff's use of Venn diagrams at the start of a new social studies lesson helps students connect new information with what they already know, tapping into their prior knowledge. This visual tool allows students to see relationships and similarities between different concepts or historical events, making it easier for them to integrate new facts into their existing understanding. By organizing information visually, students can better comprehend complex ideas and enhance their critical thinking skills as they explore the topic more deeply. This foundational step is crucial in scaffolding their learning and achieving greater comprehension as they move forward in the lesson.