Advance Writing—Comparison/Contrast Essays
Comparison/Contrast Essays
What is a Comparison/Contrast Essay?
Someone once said that you can't really know a thing unless you know how it is alike and
different from other things. To write a comparison/contrast essay, you simply compare
something or someone to something or someone else. To be specific, when you compare, you are
looking at the similarities, and when you contrast, you are looking at the differences. In a
comparison/contrast essay, you would typically be looking at both, although it may suit your
purpose to emphasize one or the other. An important element of your compare and contrast essay
is to come to some sort of interesting conclusion about your two people or objects of
comparison. This conclusion is called the big “so what?”
Steps to Writing a Comparison/ Contrast Essay:
1. Choose your topic. Consult the list of suggested topic ideas. You are not required to use a
topic from this list, but it will give you an idea of the types of topics that would work well
for this type of essay. Identify the two characters, places, or ideologies you would like to
compare and contrast. It is important to choose two things or people that have significant
differences, but also share at least one similarity.
2. Use the graphic organizer to categorize your ideas. There are several different graphic
organizers available for you to find online, but we have provided one sample which is
effective. You only need to use one of them to organize your ideas. On the Venn Diagram
(intersecting circles) record the differences on the parts of the circles that don’t intersect
and the similarities in the middle overlapping section. On the block graphic organizer,
record the similarities and differences in the appropriate boxes. This exercise will help
you distinguish your major points of comparison.
3. Develop your thesis statement to explain and prove something significant about the two
characters, settings, ideologies, etc. You should have approximately three areas of
comparison. Find and organize supporting detail for your essay.
4. Read through the sample outline and write an outline for your own compare and contrast
essay. Completing an outline first will help you keep a parallel organizational structure
throughout your essay. Each Roman numeral is a separate paragraph.
5. Read through the sample compare and contrast essay so that you will become familiar
with this essay’s format. Compose a rough draft of your compare and contrast essay and
schedule a tutorial with your instructor to discuss your first draft.
6. Before your tutorial, review the grading rubric for a cause and effect essay. Go through
the checklist and identify those areas of concern that you would like to discuss with the
teacher.
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Advance Writing—Comparison/Contrast Essays
Suggested Topics for a Comparison/Contrast Essay
All courses produced by American Heritage School use inspired texts and documents to teach
and defend truth. References to the scriptures, words of modern-day prophets, documents of the
Founding Fathers, and the seven principles of American Christian education are strongly
encouraged. Such resources help us answer the “So what?” of each essay. It is essential to
understand how each piece of literature relates to your life personally and identify truths which
strengthen your testimony. You are also encouraged to use outside resources to support the ideas
presented in your essay.
Compare/contrast two of your friends
Compare/contrast two of your teachers
Compare/contrast two places where you
have lived
Compare/contrast your mom and dad
Compare/contrast yourself today with how
you used to be
Compare/contrast the Savior’s response to
the woman anointing his feet with oil with
the Pharisees’ response
Compare/contrast Jesus’ motivations with
the Pharisees’ motivations
Compare/contrast “not-for-profit” with “forprofit”
Compare/contrast trusting in the Holy Ghost
vs. trusting in the arm of flesh
Compare/contrast righteous judgment vs.
unrighteous judgment
Compare/contrast coercion with persuasion
Compare/contrast the daylight from the dark
night
Compare/contrast misdemeanors and
felonies
Compare/contrast multiple worldviews of
the definition of “family”
Compare/contrast multiple worldviews of
the Savior
Compare/contrast multiple worldviews of
religion
Compare/contrast historical figures (e.g.
Stalin and Lenin)
Compare/contrast Karl Marx and Adam
Smith
Compare/contrast the Communist Manifesto
with the Constitution and Bill of Rights
Compare/contrast two careers
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Compare/contrast doctors and lawyers
Compare/contrast patience and impatience
Compare/contrast hypocrisy with purity
Compare/contrast confidence with doubt
Compare/contrast faith with fear
Compare/contrast right with wrong
Compare/contrast truth with error
Compare/contrast honesty with dishonesty
Compare/contrast cheerfulness with
depression
Compare/contrast “lie” with “lay”
Compare/contrast “two,” “to,” and “too”
Compare/contrast “principal” with
“principle”
Other commonly confused words (e.g.
“there,” “their,” and “they’re” | “demigods”
with “demagogues” |“immigration” with
“emigration” etc.)
Compare/contrast two products
Compare/contrast two continents
Compare/contrast two states
Compare/contrast two cities
Compare/contrast two oceans
Compare/contrast two animals
Compare/contrast blue and killer whales
Compare/contrast climes (e.g. plains vs.
desert)
Compare/contrast forms of government
Compare/contrast two wars
Compare/contrast two or more schools
Compare/contrast the ACT and SAT
Compare/contrast Pilgrims and Separatists
Compare/contrast anyone with anyone else
Compare/contrast anything with anything
else
Advance Writing—Comparison/Contrast Essays
Additional Suggested Comparison/Contract Topics for Literary Analysis
 Compare/contrast a novel’s major
character with a memorable
individual from the scriptures.
 Compare/contrast an ideology
presented in the novel with a law or
doctrine ordained by God.
 Compare/contrast the government
presented in the novel with the
government instituted by our
Founding Fathers.
 Compare/contrast how two
individuals respond to James
Madison’s decree, “Conscience is
the most sacred of all property.”
 Compare/contrast the techniques of
leadership used by a character versus
a prophet of God.
 Compare/contrast a major character
from how he/she appears in the
beginning of the novel to how he/she
is at the novel’s conclusion.
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 Compare/contrast two of the novel’s
characters. Consider such elements
as the characters’ backgrounds,
beliefs, reactions, etc.
 Compare/contrast how two
characters react differently to the
same situation.
 Compare/contrast the motivations of
two of the novels characters.
 Compare/contrast two characters
from differing social, economic, or
ethnic groups.
 Compare/contrast what is most
important to two of the novel’s
characters.
 Compare/contrast two significant
settings of the story. What is the
result of showing two contrasting
places?
 Compare/contrast the old traditions
of society with the new ideas
presented by at least one of the
novel’s characters.
Instructions: A Venn Diagram can help you identify similarities (in the area that overlaps) and differences (in the areas that do not
overlap. Try this with any two topics, using the diagram below.
Comparison/Contrast: Graphic Organizer
Advance Writing—Comparison/Contrast Essays
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Advance Writing—Comparison/Contrast Essays
Sample Outline: Comparison/Contrast
I. Introduction
A. Attention Catcher: question, surprising statement, story, etc.
B. Thesis Statement including your three areas of comparison (Example: Although
Larry Lax and Sally Strict are very different in their demeanor, expectations of
student behavior, and assigned homework, they are both exceptional teachers.
II. Teacher’s Demeanor
A. Sally Strict
1. Always greets students curtly as they enter; stares at them while they proceed
quietly to seats
2. Always makes sure class discussion sticks to the class material (no personal
stories)
3. Does not approve of laughter during class time; punishes snickering students
B. Larry Lax
1. Arrives to class just as bell rings; sometimes late—always has coffee
2. Often goes on tangents related to sports, movies, or Survivor
3. Always wants to hear jokes and limericks; makes time for at least two per day
III. Classroom Atmosphere/Student Conduct
A. Sally Strict
1. No hats in class, no feet on table
2. Does not allow students to go to bathroom or get drink
3. Must raise your hand to talk or you lose points
B. Larry Lax
1. No policy on hats; doesn’t allow feet on table, but sometimes doesn’t notice
2. Always permits students to go to bathroom or get drinks (unless he’s in a bad
mood)
3. Wants you to raise your hand before speaking, but doesn’t deduct points if
you don’t
IV. Homework
A. Sally Strict
1. Homework collected every day at the beginning of class
2. Homework must always be typed and stapled
3. Has high standards for all work
B. Larry Lax
1. Daily homework rarely collected
2. Can be turned in unstapled, even handwritten
3. Has high standards for important written assignments
V. Conclusion
A. Focus on the big “So What?” What conclusion can you come to about these two
people?
B. Restate your thesis
C. Leave the reader thinking about your ideas
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Advance Writing—Comparison/Contrast Essays
Comparison/Contrast Essay: Use of Transitions
The use of transitional phrases is an extremely important part of your compare/contrast essay.
Using transitional phrases improves the coherency of your paragraphs and makes the contrasts
stand out. In addition, they draw attention to the writer's movement back and forth from one
subject to the other, emphasizing either similarities or differences. Hence, transitions help the
reader to grasp your logic and follow your argument easily.
To show contrasts, differences or
apparent contradictions:
in contrast
however
yet
on the other hand
on the contrary
although
otherwise
conversely
as opposed to
unlike
nevertheless
still
but
regardless
despite
in spite of
instead
while
even though
whereas
rather
© 2013 Latter-day Learning
To show similarities:
also
like
likewise
similar to
similarly
by the same token
just as…so too
the same is true of…
in the same way…
again
indeed
in comparison
compared to
in like manner
in addition
furthermore
moreover
not only…but also
Advance Writing—Comparison/Contrast Essays
Comparison/Contrast Essay on Beowulf and Ammon
By Hannah Tolman
The thesis
statement
clearly
outlines the
points of
comparison.
The writer
cites
specific
quotes from
both pieces
of literature
to strength
her ideas.
Writer catches the
reader’s attention by
asking a question.
What makes a person truly heroic? Is it his brute strength or his stealthy skill with a
weapon? Perhaps a hero is one who thinks of others before himself or makes great personal
sacrifices. In every culture, stories of heroes have been passed down from generation to
generation. They are men and women who come from all walks of life. Their stories are told
time and time again because they inspire feelings of awe and gratitude. Two seemingly
different heroes are that of Ammon from the Book of Mormon and Beowulf from Old
English literature. Ammon is a missionary who leaves his homeland to teach the gospel to his
enemies. Beowulf is a fictional Anglo-Saxon character who seeks the honor of his king
through battle. Even though their purposes were very different, a closer examination reveals
some surprising similarities. Both Ammon and Beowulf were famous for their strength and
courage; however, more impressive was their willingness to serve a foreign people with no
expectation of reward.
Many people think that strength is only a physical trait, but strength can also be found
within. It is this kind of strength in character and belief in God that makes a true hero.
Ammon was a great example of this kind of strength. Alma noted this about Ammon and his
brothers: “Yea they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men of a
sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they might know
the word of God. But this is not all; Therefore they had given themselves to much prayer, and
fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they
taught they taught with the power and authority of God” (Alma 17:2-3). From this, we gather
that Ammon was a man characterized internally by his spiritual strength. His testimony was
incredibly strong.
Not only was Ammon spiritually strong, but like Beowulf, he was also physically
powerful. When Ammon left his native land and came into a foreign region, he offered his
service to the Lamanite king. One day Ammon and King Lamoni’s other servants were
watching the King‘s sheep while they grazed. Some thieves decided to scatter and steal the
sheep. They did not fear the king’s servants, so they came down and began to wreak havoc.
The servants of King Lamoni were terribly frightened. They wanted to flee, but Ammon
encouraged them to stay and defend the sheep. They were amazed by Ammon’s “expertness
and great strength” (Alma 18:3). Since Ammon’s motive was not that of gaining glory, but
only of protecting the king’s sheep, he used weapons such as a few stones and a slingshot,
and a sword against those who attacked. They were all frightened by his amazing strength,
and were either killed, had their arms cut off, or they fled with terror.
While Ammon was very strong, Beowulf was considered the strongest man in AngloSaxon empire. A terrible monster had been terrorizing the Danes for many years. They had
lost all hope of defeating this incredibly powerful, wicked enemy. Beowulf decided that he
would like to free the Danes of the destruction that this ferocious beast caused. Everyone in
his country had faith in Beowulf. While introducing himself to the Danish king, King
Hrothgar Beowulf declared, “Every elder and experienced councilman among my people
supported my resolve to come here to you…because all knew of my awesome strength”
(page 29, lines 415-418). Every wise man trusted in Beowulf because he had proven himself
to be an incredibly powerful and muscular man. In his battle with this ferocious monster, he
was so confident in his strength that he resolved not to use any weapons, (thus being
completely fair to his enemy, who had no knowledge of any kind of civilized type of battle).
While Beowulf struggled for a time with his enemy, he was eventually victorious. Proof of
how remarkable this feat was, is later found in the book when the author reveals that it takes
four men to carry only the head of the creature! Like Ammon, he believed in God, and
© 2013 Latter-day Learning
Briefly
introduce
the 2
people or
things you
are
comparing
The writer
uses
transitions
to
highlight
similarities.
Advance Writing—Comparison/Contrast Essays
The writer
moves from
one point of
comparison
to another
by using
strong topic
sentence.
recognized His hand in all things, but did not have such a strong testimony or such an
incredible mission as that of Ammon.
When strength is present, usually courage or valor is also. Ammon was very
courageous. For many generations, two nations had had feelings of hostility towards one
another. Ammon knew that his people had the gospel, but the Lamanites did not. He was not
afraid, and so he went to teach them the truth of the gospel-the hope and renewal it could
bring into their lives. He had fasted and prayed for many days that the Lord would grant them
protection, and His spirit, so they could act in wisdom. While they were traveling in the
wilderness, God gave him a promise of comfort. Because of this, Ammon knew that he
would be spared until he had completed his mission. God had told him that “ye shall be
patient in long-suffering and afflictions, that ye may show forth good examples unto them in
me, and I will make an instrument of thee in my hands unto the salvation of many souls. And
it came to pass that the hearts of the sons of Mosiah…took courage to go forth unto the
Lamanites to declare unto them the word of God” (Alma 17:11-12). He ended up converting
an entire people to the church, and the people who he had converted never fell away.
In comparison with Ammon, Beowulf was also known for his courage against any foe.
He had been victorious in all his battles. He spoke of a few of his triumphs when he said:
“they had seen me bolstered in the blood of enemies when I battled and bound five beasts,
raided a troll-nest and in the night-sea slaughtered sea-brutes. I have suffered extremes and
avenged the Geats…now I mean to be a match for Grendel, settle the outcome in single
combat” (page 29, lines 419-426). He never had a second thought about fighting this
monster. At the banquet, before he was to fight with Grendel, he made this statement: “I will
show him how Geats shape to kill in the heat of battle” (page 41, lines 602-603). This
indicates that he was fully prepared to take on Grendel; there is not the slightest sign of fear
in this bold statement. Unlike Ammon, however, Beowulf believed in fate. He did
acknowledge that God would let the best man win, but he also said that his fate was set, and
there was nothing to be done about it.
Both strength and courage are respectable traits in both these men, but the fact that they
were willing to serve was yet even more incredible. Ammon was quick to serve others. He
had ventured out of his native territory, and was captured and brought before their King.
Almost as soon as King Lamoni met Ammon, he was well pleased. He offered Ammon one
of his daughters to marry, but Ammon refused, asking only that he could be a humble servant
to the King. He had even risked his own life to try and protect King Lamoni’s property. In
fact, he kept serving the Lamanite King even after he had earned his respect. Ammon’s
whole purpose in going to the Lamanite territory was to preach the gospel. That in itself is a
serviceable act because he was not only spending all of his time helping them, but he also
was truly concerned for their eternal salvation.
Beowulf was also quick to serve a foreign people. He had come to defeat an enemy,
unlike Ammon, who had come in hopes of sharing the gospel. But once he heard of the
Dane’s suffering at the hands of Grendel, he decided to help them. He chose his fourteen best
men and set off. He came expecting no thanks, gifts, or praise. He even refused to accept
their aid. He wanted to help them by defeating their enemy alone, and he did. He went past
the requirements of a chivalrous, noble person to help this suffering people.
Both of these men are worthy of admiration and respect. One, saving a foreign people
from a horrible, ravaging enemy; the other giving a whole race of people hope and belief in
God. And so, these men from different backgrounds and periods, both facing different perils,
were able to save entire peoples. They were both strong, courageous, and service-oriented.
Their stories continue to be told because they inspire people to become better.
The writer restates the thesis &
refers back to ideas presented
in the introduction to tie the
whole essay together.
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Advance Writing—Comparison/Contrast Essays
Scoring Guide for a Cause and Effect Essay
Your paper will be evaluated on each of the “Traits of Effective Writing” using a 5-point
scale:
Goes beyond expectations. An exemplary performance.
5
4
A good performance. Any weaknesses are minor.
3
An adequate performance. Has some serious weaknesses, but not enough to be below
the basic standard.
Below standard performance. Problems are severe enough that the paper is not
acceptable as is. Needs revision.
You have misunderstood or ignored the basic requirements. No credit without
revision.
2
1
The assignment is worth 100 points, and your score on the paper will be the percentage of the
above points you earn. Categories 1-6 are worth 15 points. This will be calculated by taking the
points earned (1-5) and multiplying times three. Category 7 is worth 10 points. This will be
calculated by taking the points earned (1-5) and multiplying times two.

1. Ideas and
Information






2. Organization






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The writing contains interesting, specific information
(content).
You use a thought-provoking title.
You convey a clear and effective purpose.
The writing does not just scratch the surface of a topic, but
has depth and completeness.
The ideas are presented in such a way that keeps readers
reading.
Evidence and quotations from the literature text are used
when appropriate.
If multiple cause and/or effects are important, the writer
explores them in depth.
___ x 3
You use a purposeful organizational pattern.
The writing has logical divisions and sequence.
Essay is organized in well-developed paragraphs.
The introduction draws the reader in and has a clear thesis
statement.
The conclusion leaves the reader with a satisfying ending.
You use transitions between sentences and paragraphs to
make the writing smooth.
___ x 3
/15
/15
Advance Writing—Comparison/Contrast Essays

It is evident the writer sincerely cares about the topic and
audience.
The essay has the clear imprint of the writer. It is
expressive and engaging.
Appropriate to the intended audience or purpose. An
academic essay in your history or science class, for
example, would not have the same voice as a personal
essay, poem, or short story.
___ x 3






You use good words which are appropriate to the purpose.
Nouns and verbs are specific.
Modifiers often appeal to the senses.
Words are selected to fit meaning, not just to impress.
Vague words and overused expressions are avoided.
Many phrases seem fresh and original. The reader gets the
impression that nobody has said it exactly like this before.
___ x 3


Each sentence is well-constructed.
The writing flows smoothly and clearly from one sentence
to the next.
Sentences vary in length and don’t all begin in the same
way.
The sentences should not seem choppy and disconnected,
nor should they ramble (or run on) without a sense of
direction, order, or closure.
___ x 3
Carefully edited for clarity, brevity, usage, and mechanics.
Clarity means that the meaning is clear.
Brevity means that it is not wordy or repetitive.
Usage refers to acceptable language, word choice, and
grammar.
Mechanics means appropriate punctuation, spelling, and
capitalization.
___ x 3
Satisfies all length requirements (minimum of 300 words)
Typed on word processor, scoring guide attached, etc.
Font, margins, and spacing make the paper neat and
readable.
Any graphics used (optional) aid the reader.
___ x 2
3. Voice


4. Word Choice
5. Smooth,
Well-crafted
Sentences


6. Conventions





7. Presentation




TOTAL
POINTS
EARNED:
/15
/15
/15
/15
/10
Comments:
/100
* This scoring guide and limited instructions for writing comparison/contrast essays were
originally developed by Lind Williams and are modified and expanded with permission here by
Leland Anderson and Laura Scholl.
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