Comparison-Contrast 1
Assignment: Comparison-Contrast Essay
Mr. Yablon’s Class
By now, you should have read the chapter on comparison-contrast writing. The reading selections in the chapter, and throughout the book, all serve as fine examples of comparison-contrast writing. The subjects of comparison are similar in nature
(therefore comparable), the purposes are focused, they have strong thesis statements, are well organized, and convey appropriate tones for their subjects.
What, exactly, is a comparison-contrast essay composed of? What do you need to think about when doing one? Well, there are several things to think about.
1. First, you need to decide on a purpose. Why are you making a comparison and/or contrast? It isn’t enough to just compare and contrast two or more things.
You have to do that with some point in mind. For example, you might want to show that two things are more similar (or different) than previously thought, or you might want to define two shades of an emotion or condition (such as happiness versus ecstasy); or you might want to dramatize the effects of drinking one glass of red wine at dinner, for good health, versus drinking a case of red wine at dinner, with the ill effects of such an action; or you might want to persuade readers that stricter divorce laws are needed by comparing the laws of several different states. Regardless of the purpose, you must compare and contrast with a purpose in mind. That is what directs your essay.
2. Second, you need to make sure that the two (or more) thin gs you’re comparing or contrasting are at least somewhat similar. You can, for example, compare a
Ford and a Volvo because they’re both cars. You could not compare a car with a lawnmower (with the possible exception of an old Volkswagen). So, they need to have some related parts.
3. Third, you need to stay focused on your purpose. That is, you may want to inform (to present information as objectively as possible); to evaluate (as in pros and cons, with the goal of making some sort of judgment); to persuade (readers to take some action based upon your presentation of similarities or differences): to clear up misconceptions (by revealing previously hidden or misunderstood similarities or differences): or to draw an analogy between two seemingly unrelated subjects (such as a singles bar and a day at the zoo).
4. Fourth, you need to come up with a strong thesis. Now, a thesis always states the subject under discussion and the author’s point of view. In a comparisoncontrast essay, a thesis must do a few more things. It should name the subjects being compared and contrasted; it should indicate whether the focus is on similarities, differences, or both; and it should state the main point of comparison or contrast.

Comparison-Contrast 2
5. Fifth, you need to select the points to be discussed. Consider your audience when doing this. Be aware of what your readers know, what they don’t know, and what you can predict about their reactions. This should influence your choices of what to include. Of course, all of your points should support your thesis.
6. Sixth, organize your discussion. For a comparison-contrast essay, there are basically two ways to organize your material. They are:
The one-side-at-aorganized like this: time (sometimes called the “block”) method, which is
I.
II.
Introduction
Subject “A” - point 1
- point 2
- point 3, etc.
III.
IV.
Subject “B” - point 1
Conclusion
- point 2
- point 3, etc.
Note that the points discussed are the same and in the same order. That makes for an easy comparison. This type of organization is best used for shorter, simpler essays.
Then there’s the point-by-point method, which is best used for longer, more complicated essays. It is organized like this:
I. Introduction
II. Point 1 - subject “A” then subject “B”
III.
IV.
Point 2
Point 3
-
- subject “A” then subject “B” subject “A” then subject “B”, etc.
V. Conclusion
7. Lastly, be aware of language, as always. In order to make sure that the reader understands the comparisons and contrast s that you’re making, you need to make sure that you’re clear. Part of what makes this essay clear is good use of transitions, such as “also,” “in the same way,” “on the other hand,” or “likewise.”

Comparison-Contrast 3
Your assignment is to write a two-three page essay, double-spaced, that covers one of the following topics:
1. Two-career family versus one-career family
2. Living at home versus living in an apartment or dorm
3. Marriage versus living together
4. Children's pastimes today and yesterday
5. Public schools versus private schools
6. Neighborhood stores versus shopping malls
7. Two-career family versus one-career family
8. Prayer in public schools
9. The public’s right to know about politician’s private lives
10. Men and women serving together in military units
11. Families then and now
12. Older parents and younger parents
13. Friendships
14. Love, like, lust
15. City and country
16. A topic from the book’s chapter on comparison-contrast
17. Your own topic, (with prior notification)
Of course, if you have any questions, please talk to me as soon as possible.
Good luck.
[File: Comparison-contrast essay.doc]