Expository Writing: Comparing Two Subjects
Assignment
You will write a point-by-point compare-contrast essay that explains the similarities and
differences of two animals. Select two animals with a fairly equal number of similarities and
differences. For example, a whale and a brine shrimp are too different for a balanced pointby-point comparison-contrast. On the other hand, a gray squirrel and a red squirrel are
probably too similar. A pair like a dolphin and a shark have a more balanced amount of
similarities and differences, making them a better choice.
Traits of Writing Goals
Ideas: Select two interesting subjects, write a clear focus statement, and use details to
compare and contrast the subjects.
Organization: Introduce your comparison in the beginning and provide the point-by-point
comparison in the middle part. Draw conclusions at the end.
Voice: Write with an original voice that shows your enthusiasm.
Word Choice: Choose precise words and define unfamiliar terms.
Sentence Fluency: Write with a variety of sentences that connect your subjects with clear
comparisons and contrasts.
Conventions: Check your essay for correct punctuation, capitalization, spelling, and
grammar.
***Scoring Rubric can be found on page 194-195 of your text book!
To Begin
1. Create your own Topics Chart (see page 166). Select your topic from that chart.
2. Gather details using a Gathering Grid (see page 167). Use detail categories like physical
characteristics, diet, habitat, and behavior (3 minimum). Each category should have at
least 3 questions. Use books and encyclopedias in the library and the Internet to find
questions to answers that you don’t already know. Remember to write your sources on
the Citation Organizer so that you don’t accidentally plagiarize!
3. Write an organized outline for your writing (see pages 168-170). You may use the
outline handout provided.
4. Write your first draft (see pages 171-176)! Remember these keys to effective writing:
 Use your outline as a writing guide
 Get all your ideas on paper in your first draft
 Include your thesis (focus) statement in your first paragraph
 Begin each middle paragraph (body paragraph) with a clear
topic sentence
 Compare your two subjects point by point (category by category, fact by fact)
within each paragraph
 Sum up your comparison and contrast thoughtfully in your final paragraph
Format Guidelines for Point-by-Point Compare/Contrast Essay
1. Paragraph #1: Introduction
a. Begin with a broad statement that catches your audience’s attention.
b. Narrow in your focus.
c. End with a thesis statement (a focus statement that you are building your ENTIRE essay
around).
2. Paragraph #2: First Body Paragraph
a. Start with a topic sentence – what is THIS paragraph about? (i.e. physical characteristics)
b. Compare and contrast the similarities and differences between your two subjects in ONE
category.
3. Paragraph #3: Second Body Paragraph
a. Start with a topic sentence – what is THIS paragraph about? (i.e. diet)
b. Compare and contrast the similarities and differences between your two subjects in ONE
category.
4. Paragraph #4: Third Body Paragraph
DUE DATES*:
a. Start with a topic sentence – what is THIS
paragraph about? (i.e. habitat)
 Topic due 2/7
b. Compare and contrast the similarities
 Gathering grid Qs due 2/7
and differences between your two
 Completed Gathering grid &
subjects in ONE category.
(INSERT ANY ADDITIONAL BODY
PARAGRAPHS HERE)
5. Paragraph #5: Conclusion
a. Reiterate your focus statement.
b. Tie it all together.
c. End on a memorable closing note.
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Citation Organizer due 2/13
Outline due 2/14
1st draft due 2/22
2nd draft due 2/26
Final copy due 2/28
*All due dates subject to change!
Please pay attention in class!