 Focuses on developments in at least two societies or regions.  Relates to major themes  Requires analysis of reasons for the similarities and differences identified.

 Has acceptable thesis (1 point)  Addresses all parts of the question (2 points)  Substantiates thesis with appropriate historical evidence (2 points)

 Makes at least one relevant, direct comparison between, among societies (1)  Analyzes at least one reason for a similarity or difference identified in a direct comparison (1)

 Read the question. Which societies or regions are you comparing? In what ways are you comparing them? Are specific themes for comparison stated or do you get to choose?

 Think about the ways you will compare the societies. What do you know about each society? (GRAPES)

 Write a thesis statement. This is what you will prove in your essay with historical evidence (your argument). It is the main idea of your essay. Your thesis should note the societies you are writing about and also the themes by which you are comparing them. The thesis should also proclaim if the societies are similar or different.

 Make an outline. › Introduction: Thesis Statement and other background/filler information. › Comparison Theme 1 › Comparison Theme 2 › Comparison Theme 3 › Conclusion: Restate thesis in a different way. If the majority of your essay is about similarities, discuss a difference here and vice versa.

 Do not make one paragraph about similarities and one about differences!  Write your essay and be sure that you include “The Why”. You have to explain why the societies are similar and/or different.

 Proof read your essay! Have someone else edit it for you.  Do not use first person (no I, you, we)  Do not refer to your essay in your essay; it’s weird. “In this essay I will explain…” “From this essay you will learn…”  Write fact not opinion. No one cares about your opinion! Show historical evidence! No “I think” or “I feel”

 Choose two of the “foundational” civilizations and compare them in three ways.