AP Language Compare and Contrast Essay Assignment From http://uwf.edu/writelab/handouts/comparisoncontrast/
EQ: How can I evaluate an effective argument? CBAPELC C5--The course requires nonfiction readings (e.g., essays, journalism, political writing, science writing,
nature writing, autobiographies/ biographies, diaries, history, criticism) that are selected to give students opportunities to identify and explain an author's use of
rhetorical strategies and techniques.
The Question: Who made the better argument - - the democrats or the republicans? Why? What strategies did both use
and what was effective about both? Where did they fall short?
The Assignment: Using the speeches given at both the Republican and Democratic National Conventions, determine
what each party accomplished. Come to a conclusion about the “winner” of the convention. Use quotes and analysis from
each to back up your claims.
Ann Romney http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBA7rPKhGtQ
Marco Rubio http://www.businessinsider.com/marco-rubio-rnc-speech-republican-national-convention-2012-8
Clint Eastwood http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yoqKdWY692k&feature=plcp
Mitt Romney http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7420070n
Bill Clintonhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzDhk3BHi6Q
Michelle Obama http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0w0WxINS2E
Barack Obama http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekltAFvycSk
The Essay: 3-5 pages. Typed, double spaced, Times New Roman 12 point font. 1 inch margins.
The Introduction: All comparison/contrast papers consist of an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. The introduction
may consist of one or more paragraphs. The introduction must have a thesis statement that commits the paper to the
persuasive principle. Otherwise, the paper becomes a pointless list of data. The introduction should establish your
subjects (best limited to two), which will be examined for similarities and/or differences. The introduction should
establish your basis of comparison. Four or five subtopics are usually sufficient.
The Body consists of several paragraphs. It should contain various "indicator" words that make similarities/differences
obvious or which express transition.



Similarity is expressed by words such as likewise, the same as, too, also, similarly, in like manner, comparably.
Difference is signaled by words such as but, yet, however, nevertheless, on the contrary, contrary to, unlike, and
the opposite of.
Transition from one subject to the other can be made clear by words such as even though, although, in spite, and
notwithstanding.
The Conclusion should contain a brief summary of your data or a final thought about the speeches. Avoid trite
concluding sentences like "In summary, X and Y really are alike/different."
Questions to ask:
Does your thesis address all parts of the question?
 The thesis cannot be split and must be located in either the introductory paragraph or the conclusion.
 It cannot simply repeat the question.
 The thesis must address the issues or themes specified.
 The thesis must address BOTH a similarity and a difference.
Did you use enough facts to support your thesis?
 You should use about 10 or more facts if you can.
Did you make a solid comparison between the democrats and the republicans?
Did you weave comparisons within each paragraph. When both groups are addressed simultaneously, the essay is more likely to
make direct comparisons—similarities and differences.
Did you analyze the reasons for the similarities and differences?
 Analysis is crucial for building a sophisticated COMP essay. One basic core point is awarded to essays that state clear
reasons why the similarities or differences existed. This analysis must go beyond simply listing the items in common or the
differences.
Did you relate the comparison to a larger global context?
The global context point can be earned by effectively showing:
1. Comparisons to other politicians, conventions, or speeches
2. Connection to global processes
3. Interaction among Political Parties