FOUNDATIONS Comparative Essays

Overview Comparison-Contrast Essays compare two works with similar themes, ideas, settings, or characters.  “A Raisin in the Sun” and “Shoofly Pie” both feature characters who are grieving. A comparative essay might compare how each work deals with grief.  “A Raisin in the Sun” and “Everyday Use” both deal with heritage, contrasting Afrocentric anti-assimilationism with pride in American ancestry.  “To Da-Duh In Memoriam” and “The Friends” both contrast Caribbean Islands with New York. A comparative essay might discuss how the authors use these settings.

Basic Organization All interpretive essays, including comparison- contrast essays, should have the same basic structure:  Introductory paragraph  Several body paragraphs dealing with specific examples  Concluding paragraph

Main Structure: Point by Point Introduction Third Comparison Second Comparison First Comparison Conclusion

Main Structure: Subject by Subject Introduction Second Work: Comparison One First Work: Topic Two First Work: Topic One Conclusion Second Work: Comparison Two

Main Structure Introductory Paragraph:  Identify story and author, as well as the main thesis (“point”) Body Paragraphs:  Clearly identify a single theme or point of the paragraph Concluding Paragraph:  “Wraps up” the essay  Repeat the thesis or theme (in different words)  Repeat the main points of the essay

Writing your essay 1. Write down some interesting common points between the two works. 2. Decide on a thesis statement: What will your essay be about? 3. Take some notes on evidence from each work that support your points. 4. Choose one of the two major structures (point by point or subject by subject). 5. Write, then edit, your final essay. 6. Review the rubric carefully!

Your Essay You will be writing an essay that compares urban public education as it’s depicted in the book “The Friends” and the film “Freedom Writers.” You can choose any relevant aspects: The students, the teachers, the environment. You will receive a rubric for this essay after the break. However, you should keep these notes handy and think about your approach now.