Writing a ComparisonContrast Essay
Discussing similarities (comparisons)
and differences (contrasts).
Two Ways to Construct the
Comparison/Contrast Essay

Block Method
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Discuss the characters
(or texts, etc.) one at a
time
Write about relevant
elements of one
character in order that is
most effective
Then, discuss the same
elements with the other
character

Follow the same order

Character(s) 1: George
and Lennie
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Friendship
Dreams
Hindrances
Character(s) 2: Candy
and his dog
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Friendship
Dreams
Hindrances
Two Ways to Construct the
Comparison/Contrast Essay

Point-by-Point Method

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Essay organized by ideas
Discuss each idea, or element
in turn
Before writing comparisoncontrast essay:


Elaborate on every general
statement you make!


consider personal reactions
to characters, setting, themes,
topics, plot events that can be
discussed in depth
Support with examples,
details, facts or quotation
from the selection.
Work on thesis statement
after writing the first draft

Element 1: The unity that
exist between and among
characters:

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Element 2: Dreams
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George and Lennie
Candy and his dog
George and Lennie
Candy and his dog
Element 3:The difficult
aspects of friendships


George and Lennie
Candy and his dog
The Introduction

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Tell the reader what characters will be
compared
Include the title and author of the work
Necessary background information


Kicker!
End with thesis statement

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Do not create thesis statement until after 1st draft
States how the characters are similar and different
The Body of the Essay
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Paragraphs supporting thesis statements
Use “Model Paragraph” format:
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Kicker
Topic sentence
Supporting details
Discussion of supporting details
Concluding statement/transition
Use information from class work, homework,
charts
The Conclusion of the Essay

Sum up major points

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Restate thesis, but in unique way
End with a new (but related) thought:

By comparing and contrasting the friendship of
George and Lennie to the friendship of Candy and
his dog, it is apparent that friendships can exist in
many different forms. Although friendships can
be challenging, they are natural and necessary.