Compare if we dare… Episode III: Revenge of the Comparison and Contrast Essays.

Compare if we dare…

Episode III: Revenge of the Comparison and Contrast

Essays

What is a Comparison?

• To compare something is to point out the similarities between them

i.e. consider Tupac and Eminem: they are both rappers

What is a Contrast?

• To CONTRAST something is to point out the differences between two things

For example: Tupac is dead,Eminem is alive

What purpose do these serve?

• Answer the lead-in question what: In what ways are two things alike? In what ways are

they different?

Why do we write them?

• They inform the reader about two different or similar objects, persons, issues, etc

• They allow the writer to provide an evaluation – ie – because of the similarities or differences, one thing is better than the other…

For example…

• Burger King vs. McDonalds:

1. Service

2. Food quality

3. Cleanliness

4. Price

5. Creepiness of Mascots

How do we write a good…• Comparison/Contrast paper? -Be sure topics are comparable-Select terms of comparison that apply to both

topics-Decides on the most appropriate pattern of

organization (point-by-point or block)-Include a thesis statement identifying topic,

points of comparison; should indicate evaluation to be made