Compare if we dare… Episode III: Revenge of the Comparison and Contrast Essays

What is a Comparison? To compare something is to point out the similarities between them i.e. consider Tupac and Eminem: they are both rappers

What is a Contrast? To CONTRAST something is to point out the differences between two things For example: Tupac is dead, Eminem is alive

What purpose do these serve? Answer the lead-in question what: In what ways are two things alike? In what ways are they different?

Why do we write them? They inform the reader about two different or similar objects, persons, issues, etc They allow the writer to provide an evaluation – ie – because of the similarities or differences, one thing is better than the other…

For example… Burger King vs. McDonalds: 1.Service 2.Food quality 3.Cleanliness 4.Price 5.Creepiness of Mascots

How do we write a good… Comparison/Contrast paper? -Be sure topics are comparable -Select terms of comparison that apply to both topics -Decides on the most appropriate pattern of organization (point-by-point or block)‏ -Include a thesis statement identifying topic, points of comparison; should indicate evaluation to be made