Comparison Contrast Essay To compare means to point

Comparison / Contrast Essay

To compare means to point out similarities. To contrast means to point out differences.

A Comparison/contrast essay shows how things are alike and/or different to help the reader choose between alternatives.

Two things must be alike enough to result in a meaningful comparison. Choose subjects that are similar enough to be compared or contrasted.

You need to find points of comparison that are parallel to show the subjects are similar or different.

The thesis statement in the essay includes the two subjects you are comparing or contrasting and the main point you want to make about them.

Does my thesis statement explain what I am comparing or contrasting? Does it make a point about my topic?

Whether you decide to write mostly about similarities or differences, you will have to decide how to organize your essay. You can choose between three patterns of organization:

1. Subject by Subject Say everything (your details) about your first subject and then you say everything about your second subject. The same points should be discussed for both subjects in the same order.

Subject by subject Outline I -Introduction: lead-in and thesis II- Body: A. Paragraph Subject 1 -Topic sentence point 1 point 2 point 3 B. Paragraph Subject 2 - Topic sentence point 1 point 2 point 3 III. Conclusion – Did you prove your thesis?

2. Point by Point You support and explain your thesis statement by discussing each point of comparison or contrast, switching back and forth between subjects

Point by Point Outline I- Introduction: Lead-in and Thesis II- Body: A. Topic sentence point 1 subject 2 B. Topic sentence point 2 subject 1 subject 2 C. Topic sentence point 3 subject 1 subject 2 III – Conclusion – Did you prove your thesis?

3. Similarities to Differences l Introduction l Body paragraph One – Similarities l Body Paragraph Two – Difference l Conclusion

Similarities v Differences Outline I- Introduction: Lead-in and Thesis II- Body: A. Topic sentence Similarities Points 1, 2, 3 B. Topic sentence Differences Points 1, 2, 3 III – Conclusion – Did you prove your thesis?

Transitions l l l One similarity Another similarity Similarly Like Both As well as Also Along with Too In addition Equal l l One difference Another difference In contrast Unlike Although However, But, yet Instead of On the other hand Whereas Rather than Though

Don’t forget comparative of adjectives and adverbs: more … than less … than as … as the same …as

Works Cited l Cite your sources in MLA format l Even if it is only the book and the movie! l If you use any websites, cite them. I will know if you do!