Organizing Compare Contrast Paragraphs
Comparing Two Subjects in Two Paragraphs
Block Format
When using the block format for a two-paragraph comparison, discuss one subject in the first
paragraph and the other, in the second.
Paragraph 1: The opening sentence names the two subjects and states that they are very similar, very
different or have many important (or interesting) similarities and differences. (Be sure to identify the
source of your subjects.)
The remainder of the paragraph describes features of the first subject without referring to the second
subject.
Paragraph 2: Opening sentence must contain a transition showing you are comparing the second
subject to the first. (e.g. "Unlike (or similar to) [subject #1], [ subject #2]...
Discuss all the features of subject #2 in relation to subject #1 using compare/contrast cue words such
as like, similar to, also, unlike, on the other hand for each comparison.
End with a personal statement, a prediction, or another snappy clincher.
http://712educators.miningco.com_
The following words can help you to write a good compare and contrast paragraph:
Helper Words:
Complete and turn in the following:
Similarities
Differences
is similar to
the other hand
both
however
also
but

too
in contrast

as well
differs from
while


the Venn diagram
the outline on the back of this handout
a draft of your two paragraphs
a final draft of your two paragraphs
(double-spaced)
DUE DATE:_______________________
unlike
http://www.tnellen.com/cybereng/rubric/keywords.htm
Compare & Contrast Paragraphs Outline
I. Paragraph 1
A. Topic Sentence—Name the two subjects and state that they are very similar, very different
or have many important (or interesting) similarities and differences. (Be sure to explain the
source of the subjects.):_____________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
B. Supporting Sentences—Describe all the selected features (at least three) of the first
subject without referring to the second subject.
1. First feature:_______________________________________________________
2. Second feature:_____________________________________________________
3. Third feature:______________________________________________________
C. Concluding Sentence—Conclude your thoughts about subject #1:____________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
II. Paragraph 2
A. Topic Sentence—The opening sentence must contain a transition showing you are
comparing the second subject to the first. (e.g. "Unlike (or similar to) [subject #1],
[subject #2]... :_____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
B. Supporting Sentences—Discuss all the features of subject #2 in relation to subject #1
using compare/contrast cue words such as like, similar to, also, unlike, on the other hand
for each comparison.
1. First feature of subject #2 in relation to first feature of subject #1:________________
______________________________________________________________________
2. Second feature of subject #2 in relation to second feature of subject #1:___________
______________________________________________________________________
3. Third feature of subject #2 in relation to third feature of subject #1:______________
______________________________________________________________________
C. Concluding Sentence—End with a personal statement, a prediction, or another snappy
clincher.:_________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________