Essay Assignment: Comparison or Contrast
In 250- 300 words, write an essay of comparison or contrast on any two places you've lived.
Directions:
As you select a topic, keep in mind that you won't be describing the two places you are writing about-you will be emphasizing the ways they are alike or different.
Make two columns on a sheet of paper, one for each of the two places you'll write about. In the left-hand column, write down words or phrases that describe the first of the two. On the right-hand column, write a corresponding word or phrase about the other item.
Decide if the two places you are writing about are similar, in which case you'll write an essay comparing them. If they are different, you'll emphasize how they contrast.
Look over the lists and think how characteristics you have written down could fit into three categories that can serve as your supporting points.
Write a scratch outline for your essay based on these three points.
Write the first draft of your essay, reread it, and revise it in terms of unity, support, coherence, and sentence skills the Four Bases Checklist for Comparison or Contrast given on page 319, John Langan, College Writing Skills with Readings.