Definitions Compare/Contrast: Identifying and describing similarities and differences among parts in order to “illuminate a topic” (better understand the whole)

Compare/Contrast Steps Initial pre-writing Identify points of comparison Brainstorm specific ideas Write a tentative thesis statement Organize ideas using block plan (lumping) or point-by-point (splitting) Determine focus of each paragraph and write topic sentences Write and revise essay

Identifying Points of Comparison Key points on which the items compare and/or contrast Points should be examined for both items Make real comparison/contrast possible (not “comparing apples to oranges”)

Tentative Thesis Statement One sentence that sums up the comparison and the “illumination of the topic” (the inference/conclusion reached) based on the comparison

Thesis—McDonald’s/Wendy’s NOT: McDonald’s and Wendy’s have a few differences. NOT: McDonald’s and Wendy’s both have pros and cons. NOT: Though McDonald’s has lower prices, Wendy’s has better quality and quicker service. INSTEAD: Despite McDonald’s lower prices, Wendy’s remains the better choice because of its higher quality and quicker service.

Patterns of Organization Block Plan--Lumping – Provides a separate focus for each item being compared/contrasted – Most useful for paragraph-level comparisons or short essays

Example Despite McDonald’s lower prices, Wendy’s remains the better choice because of its higher quality and quicker service. I. Topic 1 A.Point 1 B.Point 2 C.Point 3 II. Topic 2 A.Point 1 B.Point 2 C. Point 3

Point-by-Point Plan--Splitting – Provides separate focus for each point of comparison – Especially useful for longer essays

Example Despite McDonald’s lower prices, Wendy’s remains the better choice because of its higher quality and quicker service. I. Point 1 A.Topic 1 B.Topic 2 II. Point 2 A.Topic 1 B.Topic 2 III. Point 3 A.Topic 1 B.Topic 2

Topic Sentence States the idea that each paragraph develops. Typically at the beginning of the paragraph. Must show connection to thesis statement.

THESIS: Despite McDonald’s lower prices, Wendy’s remains the better choice because of its higher quality and quicker service. I.McDonald’s strength is its low prices, but its quality and service are mediocre. II.While Wendy’s is slightly more expensive than McDonald’s, its better quality and quicker service are worth the extra money.

THESIS: Despite McDonald’s lower prices, Wendy’s remains the better choice because of its better quality and quicker service. I.McDonald’s strength is its low prices. II.Unfortunately, McDonald’s low prices are matched by mediocre quality and service. III.Compared to McDonald’s, Wendy’s is slightly more expensive. IV.While Wendy’s is slightly more expensive than McDonald’s, its better quality and quicker service are worth the extra money.

THESIS: Despite McDonald’s lower prices, Wendy’s remains the better choice because of its better quality and quicker service. I.One advantage of McDonald’s is that its prices are lower than Wendy’s. II.Despite McDonald’s lower prices, Wendy’s is a better choice because it provides quicker service. III.In addition to quicker service, Wendy’s is preferable because its food is of a higher quality than McDonald’s.