A compare/contrast essay compares two things, contrast two things, or compare and contrast two things.
When we compare we are telling how the two things are similar.
When we contast we are telling how the two things are different.
When we compare we are telling how the two things are similar.
When we contast we are telling how the two things are different.
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Where do I begin?
The first thing you need to do is to choose a topic! For this essay you will be allowed to choose your own two things to compare/contrast. You'll want to choose something that interests you. Remember, your topic should consist of two items and you should be able to find at least three features you can compare and contrast for the two items.
The first thing you need to do is to choose a topic! For this essay you will be allowed to choose your own two things to compare/contrast. You'll want to choose something that interests you. Remember, your topic should consist of two items and you should be able to find at least three features you can compare and contrast for the two items.
Planning Your Essay
We use compare and contrast thinking everyday. Which cereal to eat for breakfast, which university to attend, which car to buy.
![Picture](/uploads/1/7/3/5/17352531/689895358.jpg?349)
First, choose your topic. Choose two things that interest you, it will be much easier two write your essay if your are writing about something you like.
Keep in mind that your topic should be something your know well enough to write about. The only research you should need to do would be to maybe look up a few facts to be certain you have your information correct.
How long does it need to be? 4 paragraphs minimum
- two animals
- two jobs
- two people
- to characters
- a book vs. a movie version
- two hobbies
- two seasons
- The possibilities of topics are endless!
Keep in mind that your topic should be something your know well enough to write about. The only research you should need to do would be to maybe look up a few facts to be certain you have your information correct.
How long does it need to be? 4 paragraphs minimum
Organizing Your Essay
Start by writing down everything you know about each subject and organize your thoughts. A great type of organizer for compare/contrast essays is a Venn Diagram (see example to the right). To correctly use a Venn Diagram, we put the differences in the outside areas and the similarities where there is an overlap. Look for connections! You can download a word document template by clicking the linked file below.
Downloadable Venn Diagram Template (Yes, it's part of the grade.) |
I am going to write my sample paper about the similarities and differences between moths and butterflies. (This is my topic, you can not choose this same topic.) You can see my completed Venn Diagram here. You will need to turn in your Venn Diagram with your final copy to receive full credit on this assignment.
Develop your thesis statement. You can look at your list and as some questions. Is there something important, significant, or interesting in teh similarities and differences on your list? What have you discovered about the two subjects?
My Thesis Statement: Although moths and butterflies do appear to be very similar, there are several characteristics that can be observed to help one categorize them properly.
My Thesis Statement: Although moths and butterflies do appear to be very similar, there are several characteristics that can be observed to help one categorize them properly.
What About Formatting?
There are two formats for structuring your compare/contrast essay: block and point-by-point
Block:
You write about the first subject in the first body paragraph and the second subject in the second body paragraph. Usually, there is not a third body paragraph.
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Point-by-Point Organization:
You discuss a particular point about the first subject and then immediately discuss the same point about the second subject
You discuss a particular point about the first subject and then immediately discuss the same point about the second subject
- If you mention the temperature of spring in the first body paragraph, you must then compare/contrast the temperature of autumn immediately afterward, in the same paragraph
- Use details and examples to support the similarities and differences you have chosen
Putting it on Paper ...
When you meet someone for the first time, you don't walk up shake hands and give your life's story! You say "Hi, my name is _____," and then maybe tell a few interesting things about yourself.
The introduction does just what it sounds like it does; it introduces the reader to the topic. Every great introduction should include at least two things.
The introduction does just what it sounds like it does; it introduces the reader to the topic. Every great introduction should include at least two things.
- a hook - something interesting or catchy to keep the reader going
- a thesis statement - the road map for the essay; what it's all about
The middle part, or the body, of the paper makes up the bulk of the writing. It should be the longest portion and made up of 2 paragraphs minimum, but can be more. This part talks about what you said you would talk about!
Each paragraph should be at least 5 sentences long. You should also use appropriate transition words to help develop coherence in your writing.
Each paragraph should be at least 5 sentences long. You should also use appropriate transition words to help develop coherence in your writing.
The conclusion wraps up your essay. It says, "This is what I have talked about." (But, again, not necessarily in that way.) It summarizes you main points, ties up your loose ends, and brings closure to your writing. It may also provide an evaluation and/or possible future developments.
Edit and Proofread
Remember to proofread carefully before turning in your paper! Use this checklist to make sure you've done everything!
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revising_editing_checklist.pdf | |
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Your Final Copy - Submit by May 28, 2014 (50 points)
Remember, to receive full credit, you must submit the following:
- Complete and submit your Venn Diagram or other appropriate graphic organizer (template on my website)
- Final copy of your Compare/Contrast Essay
Check our my sample essay comparing and contrasting butterflies and moths!
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lac_semester_2_module_16_day_79_-_compare_and_contrast_essay.doc | |
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File Type: | doc |
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compare_and_contrast_essay_rubric.pdf | |
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