Writing a Compare and Contrast Essay

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

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

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

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.

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

Venn Diagram

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.

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.

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?

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

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