1. Writing Objectives Compare and Contrast Essay

2. Conventions  Thesis Statement  Solid Introduction  Paragraph Writing  Strong Conclusion  Transitions  Topic Sentences  Sentence Variety

3. MLA Format  http://www.csus.edu/owl/index/mla/mla_for mat.htm http://www.csus.edu/owl/index/mla/mla_for mat.htm http://www.csus.edu/owl/index/mla/mla_for mat.htm

4. Thesis Statement  Is considered the “road map” of the paper telling the reader what to expect and where to go  Usually a single topic sentence in the first paragraph that presents the viewpoints of the writer that the body of the essay will elaborate upon

5. Tense  Keep the same TENSE throughout the paper  Past – Bob watched the football game  Present – Bob watches the football game

6. Transitions  Necessary and effective in writing See Transition handout See Transition handout

7. NO Nos  NO contractions!!!  NO “I” or “My”  NO “You”

8. Before turning it in…  Edit and proofread Enlist in help; a fresh eye can help find any improvements Enlist in help; a fresh eye can help find any improvements