1. Keys to the Comparison Essay

2. What is the Comparison essay? THE BASICS  An essay discussing the similarities and differences between two given regions

3. What is the Comparison essay? What are the characteristics of any good comparison?

4. What is the comparison essay? REQUIRED ELEMENTS  Addressing both similarities & differences  Thesis statement  Supporting the thesis  Utilizing direct comparison  Analyzing the reason for similarity or difference

5. Fundamentals of…  Answering the question: –Read the question accurately & plan Underline directive word= describe v. compare v. analyze v. evaluate v. to what extent Establish boundaries for writing= time period & region Recall prior knowledge= note any info that you remember within the boundaries –Remember differences, not just similarities: “compare” implies both –Identify at least 1 accurate similarity & 1 accurate difference

6. Complexities of…  Answering the question: –Strive for 3 body paragraphs Rule of 3 –Remember comparison is a type of analysis, which requires higher order thinking Comparing people, places, or things are NOT sufficient; instead consider ideas, categories, & trends Review your plan; use your extensive vocabulary - look for words or trends that categorize as much information as possible

7. Fundamentals of…  Thesis –Restate location & time period boundaries –Write a strong statement of 1-3 sentences in your intro that lays out your central argument & 3 controlling ideas Should directly answer the question asked

8. Complexities of…  Thesis –Should find a balance between overly broad generalizations versus specific supporting details Stating the categories of comparison from your planning is not sufficient; you must elaborate on these Examples: Compare the contemporary U.S. & Japan –…both have plentiful forests, but one is in N. America & the other is in Asia. –…have similar economies, but different militaries. –…both have economies based on service and technology industries, but the U.S. is more able to project its power internationally than Japan. –Reword & restate in conclusion

9. Fundamentals of…  Substantiating Thesis: –Give multiple, specific examples to support thesis claims (requires that you know history) –Remember the Rule of 3 Have a goal of 3 supporting details per body ¶

10. Complexities of…  Substantiating Thesis: –Good historical writing & paragraph structure call for statements of analysis After presenting specific detailed facts, you must tie these facts to your thesis & the question Explain how your example answers the question

11. Fundamentals of…  Direct comparison –At least once, a direct concrete similarity or difference must be discussed using both societies in the same sentence Rather than simply listing parallel facts and expecting the reader to see the comparisons, consistently illustrate the specific similarities and differences. –This is largely solved with a strong organization around a strong thesis

12. Complexities of…  Direct comparison –Aim to use a direct comparison in every body paragraph, which strengthens your support Rule of 3

13. Fundamentals of…  Analyzing reason for comparison: –Identify at least 1 cause of a similarity or difference

14. Complexities of…  Analyzing reason for comparison: –Aim to explain the reason for similarity or difference in every body paragraph, which strengthens your support Rule of 3

15. Finished Product – Formal Essay  What will my essay look like? Organization –Introduction = Thesis –3 Body ¶‘s: each with Topic sentence - tied to thesis & introduces controlling idea Support – use both factual evidence & analysis Clincher - summarize the significance of the evidence, answer the question “so what?” –Conclusion = clarify central by rewording thesis and answer to question based on the essay written

16. Finished Product – Formal Essay  Style & Conventions –There are requirements specific to AP, but keep in mind this is about becoming a good writer Don’t use I, me, you, or texting abbreviations in formal essays While the essays are timed, try to use proper spelling and punctuation because errors can cloud your argument

17. What is the comparison essay?  What are the required tasks of the comparison essay?  Write a thesis statement comparing this class with your English class.