Introduction to Comparison/Contrast Essays

Body Paragraphs

Expand upon points in thesis statement & provide further details Each one should contain topic sentence & supporting sentence Typical comparison/contrast essay has 4-6 body paragraphs

The point of writing a comparison or contrast is to

highlight subtle differences or unexpected similarities; there should be a meaningful connection between the two things you are comparing or contrasting

Informative Writing

Writing designed to inform, describe, or explain Goal is to inform reader about something using objective tone by avoiding use of first person references

Purpose of Comparison/Contrast in Writing

Effective way to draw connections between two subjects & convey important similarities & differences between them Should increase audience's understanding of how 2 subjects within a category are similar or different; can utilize elements from multiple modes such as informative, persuasive, or argumentative

Introduction

Establish essay's topic; include clear articulation of thesis Thesis should state the two subjects that will be compared, contrasted, or both, along with points that will be further explored in body of essay

Structure of a Comparison/Contrast Essay

Introductory paragraph with thesis statement, body paragraphs that support thesis statement & highlight similarities/differences between subjects Conclusion