1. Compare and Contrast Essays

2. Purpose of comparing and contrasting
Show similarities
Show differences (contrast)

3. Why do people compare and contrast in essays
To evaluate two or more things (texts, objects, facts…or in our case, film and text) We evaluate to find out which is better, if a pattern is followed, and trends.
To explain concepts (Just like when we use metaphors and similes to create a picture in our readers’ minds, we compare/contrast to create a clear picture of our topic or teach.)

4. You compare and contrast things everyday.

5. How to get started… Organize your information with graphic organizers
But I did organize my desk…

6. Venn Diagrams
Venn Diagram

7. Comparative Charts/Tables

9. Decide the essay format
Now that I’ve taken notes, what essay structure would be best to use?

10. Ways to organize compare/contrast essays
Block Format
First compare (find similarities), then contrast (find differences)
Point by Point Format
compare and contrast by category
(one category/topic/ paragraph)

11. Block Format Intro: introduce subjects and subtopics
Comparison paragraph(s)
Contrast paragraph(s)
Conclusion: wrap up and highlight key points
Created by Cindy Farnum 2004

12. Point by Point Format Intro: introduce subjects and subtopics
Compare/contrast topics using category/point #1
Compare/contrast topics using category/point #2
Conclusion: wrap up and highlight key points

13. Brainstorm for ideas
Use a basic outline format, list or drawings to plan out the structure of your essay

14. Create a thesis statement
Remember, a thesis statement establishes the topic of your essay and the main points of your body paragraphs.
For example…
Although rain and snow are both types of precipitation, they vary in form, temperature, and climate found.

15. Write!
Begin writing your essay while thinking about adding details, explanations, direct quotes, etc.

16. Add transitions Compare Words: Contrast Words: also too as as well as
both
in the same manner
in the same way
like
likewise
most important
same
similar
similarly
the same as
Contrast Words:
although
but
differ
even though
however
in contrast
instead
on the other hand
on the contrary
nevertheless
unless
unlike
while
yet

17. Proofread
Next, read over your essay again for mechanical, grammar and spelling errors. (Edit)
Have you spelled and used all words correctly?
Did you properly punctuate and capitalize your sentences?
Did you follow proper grammar rules in your writing?
Read over your essay to first check for meaning. (Revise)
Do you have all the important details?
Have you chosen the best words to convey your purpose?

18. Published Copy
Now, Go Do
Yo Thang!!