1. Compare and Contrast Essays
- To express similarities and differences between two given elements

2. OMG! This was SO my dress first!
Key Features
multiple similar subjects
Descriptive details
“Equal Time” for topics
Categorization
Block or point-by-point
organization
transition to pinpoint
like/different ideas
OMG! This was SO my dress first!

3. Key words to look for in an essay prompt:
Compare
Contrast
Similarities
Differences
Likenesses
Discuss the similarities and differences between a household goldfish and a saltwater shark

4. Use These Words in You Essay:
Like ( like the goldfish, the shark also has gills…)
Similar to ( similar to the previous example…)
Differs ( the goldfish and shark differ in their diets…)
Also ( A Shark is also in the same family as the goldfish…)
Unlike ( unlike the goldfish, a shark has sharp teeth)
On the other hand ( on the other hand, goldfish do not bite…)

5. Similarities between Topics A and B
Venn Diagram
Topic A
Differences
Similarities between Topics A and B
Topic B Differences

6. Create a Venn Diagram for the Following Items:
Minimum 5 observations in each diagram section

7. Look at your Venn Diagram and create a sample Topic Statement:
Topic A and B are similar in (example), but are very different when it comes to (example), and (example).
EXAMPLE:
Sharks and goldfish are similar in body features, but are very different when it comes to their food choices and demeanor.