1. Using the chocolate method!!
Comparing Texts
Using the chocolate method!!

2. Learning Objectives
To understand how to compare two poems effectively.
To be able to use comparative vocabulary to show the similarities and differences between two texts.

3. Do-it-yourself comparisons Or how not to do it!
The main mistake that students make when comparing text is that they write about one text then they write about the next and expect the reader to do the comparing for them.
So instead of this…

4. Look at the texts vertically not horizontally…
Comparative point
Alison
Point Evidence Explanation
Medusa
Reference to the question

5. First look at the wrappers… (or the first comparative point)
Look at the material the wrapper is made from plus the colours and fonts used.
How are they similar?
How are they different?

6. The Wrappers
Both chocolate bars are wrapped in foil which is sealed on both sides but can be ripped open easily. However, the main colour used for the Twix bar is gold whereas the main colour for the Mars Bar is black. Both wrappers use red for the name of the product to attract the purchasers’ attention. Furthermore, the font used by both products is very distinctive and if a Mars Bar or Twix is ever advertised then the same font is always used.

7. Themes and ideas
Both Duffy and Fanthorpe explore the contrast between the past and present.
Proof from both texts.
Analysis – how do the techniques used by the writers create meaning or an effect on the reader or audience.

8. What other themes link the texts?
Medusa
Alison
Memory
Loss
Relationships
Change (negative)
Relationships
Loss
Revenge
Change (negative)

9. Now look at the appearance of the actual bar…(or comparative point 2).
Look at the shape and colour?
How is it similar?
How is it different?

10. The appearance of the two bars of chocolate
The main difference between Twix and Mars Bar is that there are two bars of chocolate in a Twix and just one Mars Bar. However, apart from this their appearance is very similar with both bars being covered in a smooth rippled chocolate effect.

11. Comparative words
Similarly… see the sheet

12. So whenever you have to compare…
Think Chocolate!