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Compare and Contrast Writing

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of a compare-and-contrast essay?

To analyze two subjects by comparing or contrasting them (correct)

To highlight the subtle differences between two very similar subjects

To demonstrate the writer's knowledge of the subjects being compared

To state the obvious similarities and differences between two subjects

Which of the following would be the best subjects to compare in a compare-and-contrast essay?

Two types of apples

An apple and an orange

Two types of oranges

All of the above (correct)

What is the main difference between comparison and contrast in writing?

Comparison discusses elements that are similar, while contrast discusses elements that are different (correct)

Comparison is more useful for analyzing two very different subjects, while contrast is better for analyzing two similar subjects

Comparison is used to highlight subtle differences, while contrast is used to state the obvious

Comparison is a more sophisticated writing technique than contrast

Why would a writer choose to compare two subjects that seem unrelated at first?

To make the essay more interesting for the reader Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following would be the best example of a comparison between two subjects?

Comparing the nutritional content of apples and oranges Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of conducting a comparison or contrast in writing?

To highlight the subtle differences or unexpected similarities between two subjects Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of a compare-and-contrast essay?

To provide useful knowledge to the reader Signup and view all the answers

In a compare-and-contrast essay, what does the thesis statement do?

States the two subjects to be compared and the reason for doing so Signup and view all the answers

How can compare-and-contrast essays be organized?

By discussing individual points related to each subject Signup and view all the answers

Which phrase can cue a reader that a comparison is being made in an essay?

In a similar fashion Signup and view all the answers

What role does the author suggest phrases like 'Both' and 'Similarly' play in an essay?

Cueing the reader to recognize comparison and contrast Signup and view all the answers

In a compare-and-contrast essay, what does it mean for a thesis to 'lean more toward contrasting'?

It emphasizes differences between subjects more than similarities Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Understanding Compare-And-Contrast Essays

Compare-and-contrast essays analyze two subjects by highlighting their similarities and differences.
The key to a good compare-and-contrast essay is to choose two or more subjects that connect in a meaningful way.

Effective Comparison and Contrast

Focus on contrasting two subjects by highlighting subtle differences, rather than stating the obvious.
To contrast, choose two subjects that are similar but have subtle differences (e.g., two types of oranges).
To compare, choose two subjects that seem unrelated at first, highlighting unexpected similarities (e.g., apples and oranges).

Structure of a Compare-And-Contrast Essay

A compare-and-contrast essay starts with a thesis that clearly states the two subjects and the reason for comparison or contrast.
The thesis can lean towards comparing, contrasting, or both.
The purpose of comparing and contrasting is to provide useful knowledge to the reader.

Organizing a Compare-And-Contrast Essay

Organization can be based on either:
- The subjects themselves (discussing one then the other)
- Individual points (discussing each subject in relation to each point)
The organizational structure depends on the topic, purpose, and audience.

Useful Phrases for Compare-And-Contrast Essays

Phrases that cue the reader to analysis include:
- Comparison: similarly, like, both, alike
- Contrast: conversely, in contrast, unlike, whereas

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Description

Learn about the elements of compare and contrast writing, how to choose subjects for a meaningful analysis, and the purpose behind conducting comparisons and contrasts. Explore ways to effectively illuminate subtle differences and unexpected similarities in your writing.