1. Writing a Compare and Contrast Essay

2. What does it mean to compare and contrast?
Comparison shows how two or more things are similar
Contrast shows how two or more things are different
When writing a compare/contrast essay, the two processes are used together
This helps the reader become more familiar about the subjects at hand

3. Establishing a basis for comparison
The two subjects being compared must have enough in common to justify the comparison.
In making comparisons, you should move beyond the obvious (i.e., dogs and cats)
When two things are very similar, it is the contrasts that may be worth writing about

4. Searching points for discussion
Determine whether your emphasis will be on similarities, differences, or both.
However, you still need to address both the similarities and the differences
Make sure you use the same traits for each subject
Novel A
Novel B
Major characters
Minor characters
Themes

5. Do not discuss entirely different traits for each subject.
Novel A
Novel B
Major Characters
Plot
Minor Characters
Author’s Life
Themes
Symbolism
Do not discuss entirely different traits for each subject.

6. Graphic Organizer
A graphic organizer is essential for this type of essay
It will help keep your thoughts and your format in a logical order
AND it will help keep you organized

7. Venn Diagram

8. WRITING EXERCISE:
Dorthea Lange
Migrant Mother
Photograph 1936
Jaime Olaya
La Familia
Painting 1897
What traits do these two pictures share? Do they share enough traits to be compared and contrasted? Explain.

9. Dorthea Lange
Migrant Mother
Photograph 1936
Jaime Olaya
La Familia
Painting 1897
In your journal, create a venn diagram to list the similarities and differences of these two works of art.

10. Dorthea Lange
Migrant Mother
Photograph 1936
Jaime Olaya
La Familia
Painting 1897
What story do you believe these portraits are trying to tell their audience?

11. Dorthea Lange
Migrant Mother
Photograph 1936
Jaime Olaya
La Familia
Painting 1897
Write a short compare-contrast quick-write in your journal using the things you wrote down in the Venn Diagram

12. “Seeing the Light”
Pg. 197
Traditional Incandescent Compact Fluorescent