Writing with Comparisons and Contrasts
Compare two personal spaces in time-two cities, two states, two neighborhoods, two sports teams within the same sport (e.g., basketball), or two types of cuisine
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Contrast two personal spaces in time-two cities, two states, two neighborhoods, two sports teams, or two cuisines
OR
Contrast two different time periods of one personal place: then and now-one city, one state, one neighborhood, one sports team, or one type of cuisine
Complete and submit the worksheets as directed by your instructor.
Step 1: Prewriting Worksheet
An important task in prewriting is exploring and expanding on ideas related to the prompt. After deciding on the topic for the essay, use prewriting techniques (free writing) to help the ideas flow freely. To further assist in developing the topics, create a detailed points-of-reference chart similar to the one completed for the practice assignment. Remember that when creating a points-of-reference chart, list as many details for each topic as possible. Include your own comments as well as factual details. Combining the points-of-reference chart with other prewriting activities will help organize the paper, find details, and formulate the thesis statement.
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Topic #1
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Points-of-Reference (criteria)
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Topic #2
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Young, inexperience
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Mature, stable
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Energetic, healthy
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High risk, exhausted
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Single, outcast
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Supported, happy
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Step 2: Focusing Worksheet
Focusing is the process of identifying the audience one is writing for as well as the purpose of the essay. Focusing can help narrow the topic and write some effective examples.
Directions: Consider the purpose and audience for the essay, and answer or consider these questions for the essay prompt and topic.
Purpose
1. Is the writer comparing or contrasting the two topics? Contrast
2. What is the purpose? Contrasting my difference in pregnancy of my daughters
Audience
1. Who will be reading the comparison or contrast essay?
2. What do readers already know about the topic?
3. What don't the readers know about the topic?