A Brief Overview to Writing A Comparison/Contrast Essay

Similarities and Differences

Definition

Writing a comparison/contrast paper involves comparing and contrasting two subjects.

A comparison shows how two things are alike.

A contrast shows how two things are different.

Choosing a TopicWhen you choose a topic, be sure

not to choose two totally unrelated subjects.

You must start with subjects that have some basic similarities.

two moviestwo short stories book and movie

Brainstorm Brainstorm

everything you know about each subject and then go back and look for connections that show similarities and differences.

Points of Contrast/Comparison

Autumn Spring

Temperature(--) color warmer

Changes(--) Leaves change Flowers bloom

Color(+) brilliant colors brilliant colors

Location(--)(+) proceedswinter

proceedssummer

Symbolism(--)(+) death birth

Characteristics Subject 1: M&Ms Subject 2: Skittles

Color Variety of color—DarkerNot a rainbow—has brownHave a letter-M (clear)

Rainbow—Brighter, doesn’t have blueSkittles have a letter-S (faded)

Shape/size Is symmetrical; hard; flatter; ellipse; slightly larger (1/2 inch diameter)

Not a perfect symmetrical object—bumpy; flexible; fatter/rounder; ellipse; smaller (1/3 inch diameter)

Tastes/texture Sweet-Chocolate; crunchy outside; creamy/smooth inside;

Sweet-Fruity; gummy—chewy; lasts longer; aftertaste; a little sour; colors=dif. Flavors

Develop a thesis statement A thesis statement is the MAIN IDEA of an

essay. The thesis statement will evolve from the

brainstorming. Look at your list and ask yourself some questions."Is there something important, significant,

or interesting in the similarities and differences on my list?

"What have I discovered about my two topics?"

Thesis statements are:

usually one sentenceoften placed in the introductory

paragraph of an essaya claim that could be arguedcontain evidence or opinions that

support the argument.

Thesis statements are not:

First person (I believe, In my opinion, etc.)

Unclear in language (It seems, etc.)Attempting two topics at once (even

if they seem related). Pick one and stick with it.

Thesis: Though skittles and M&Ms are visually similar, they are actually very different.

A thesis statement should not be too broad.Too Broad

Mountain City Elementary is a fantastic place.

Better

Mountain City Elementary is a fantastic school because of good teachers, motivated students, and active parent involvement.

Organizing the essay

The introduction of your essay should mention both subjects in a strong and clearly defined thesis statement:

“Although there is exquisite beauty in the seasons of autumn and spring, there are also distinctions which allow each season to stand on its own.”

Organizing the essay

Choose an organizational structure. There are two primary ways to organize the body of your paper: the divided pattern the alternating pattern

The Divided PatternGive all supporting details for one subject

and then give all supporting details for the other subject.

Paragraph 1:Introduction and thesis Statement

Paragraph 2: Discuss and give supporting details for subject 1

Paragraph 3: Discuss and give supporting details for subject 2

Paragraph 4: Concluding statement: statement

The Alternating Pattern

Alternate the details from one side of the comparison or contrast to the other

comparison otherP1: Introduction and thesis statementP2: Discuss and give all details of

similaritiesP3: Discuss and give all details of

differencesP4: Conclusion

Write the conclusion

Concluding StatementThe conclusion of your paper should

restate your thesis and include final connections about the two subjects.

Make sure to incorporate TRANSITIONS

To compare To contrast

Also as in the same way like likewise similarly comparable equally in addition  

Although but even though however on the other hand otherwise yet still conversely as opposed to different from whereas