A Brief Overview to Writing A Comparison/Contrast Essay Similarities and Differences

Definition  Writing a comparison/contrast paper involves comparing and contrasting two subjects.  A comparison shows how two things are alike.  A contrast shows how two things are different.

Choosing a Topic  When you choose a topic, be sure not to choose two totally unrelated subjects.  You must start with subjects that have some basic similarities.  two movies  two short stories  book and movie

Brainstorm  Brainstorm everything you know about each subject and then go back and look for connections that show similarities and differences. Points of Contrast/ Comparison AutumnSpring Temperature(--)colorwarmer Changes(--)Leaves changeFlowers bloom Color(+)brilliant colors Location(--)(+)proceeds winter proceeds summer Symbolism(--)(+)deathbirth CharacteristicsSubject 1: M&MsSubject 2: Skittles Color Variety of color—Darker Not a rainbow—has brown Have a letter-M (clear) Rainbow—Brighter, doesn’t have blue Skittles have a letter-S (faded) Shape/size Is symmetrical; hard; flatter; ellipse; slightly larger (1/2 inch diameter) Not a perfect symmetrical object—bumpy; flexible; fatter/rounder; ellipse; smaller (1/3 inch diameter) Tastes/texture Sweet-Chocolate; crunchy outside; creamy/smooth inside; Sweet-Fruity; gummy— chewy; lasts longer; aftertaste; a little sour; colors=dif. Flavors

Develop a thesis statement  A thesis statement is the MAIN IDEA of an essay.  The thesis statement will evolve from the brainstorming. Look at your list and ask yourself some questions.  "Is there something important, significant, or interesting in the similarities and differences on my list?  "What have I discovered about my two topics?"

Thesis statements are:  usually one sentence  often placed in the introductory paragraph of an essay  a claim that could be argued  contain evidence or opinions that support the argument.

Thesis statements are not:  First person (I believe, In my opinion, etc.)  Unclear in language (It seems, etc.)  Attempting two topics at once (even if they seem related).  Pick one and stick with it. Thesis: Though skittles and M&Ms are visually similar, they are actually very different.

A thesis statement should not be too broad. Too Broad Mountain City Elementary is a fantastic place. Better Mountain City Elementary is a fantastic school because of good teachers, motivated students, and active parent involvement.

Organizing the essay  The introduction of your essay should mention both subjects in a strong and clearly defined thesis statement: “Although there is exquisite beauty in the seasons of autumn and spring, there are also distinctions which allow each season to stand on its own.”

Organizing the essay Choose an organizational structure. There are two primary ways to organize the body of your paper:  the divided pattern  the alternating pattern

The Divided Pattern Give all supporting details for one subject and then give all supporting details for the other subject.  Paragraph 1:Introduction and thesis Statement  Paragraph 2: Discuss and give supporting details for subject 1  Paragraph 3: Discuss and give supporting details for subject 2  Paragraph 4: Concluding statement: statement

The Alternating Pattern Alternate the details from one side of the comparison or contrast to the other comparison other  P1: Introduction and thesis statement  P2: Discuss and give all details of similarities  P3: Discuss and give all details of differences  P4: Conclusion

Write the conclusion Concluding Statement  The conclusion of your paper should restate your thesis and include final connections about the two subjects.

Make sure to incorporate TRANSITIONS To compareTo contrast Also as in the same way like likewise similarly comparable equally in addition Although but even though however on the other hand otherwise yet still conversely as opposed to different from whereas