Compare+and+Contrast+Writing

Before you start writing your first big compare and contrast paper, you are going to practice writing comparatively with this assignment. You need to click on the link and then rename the document by adding your name to the beginning of the title. Follow the directions and share with me when completed. We will discuss your essay and give you ideas to work on as you start your first paper.

//The following is a short how-to for writing a comparative essay.//

When writing a comparative essay, the writer must perform a balancing act between each subject, comparing two subjects in such a way that both you and your reader better understand the similarities and/or differences between them. Use the guidelines below to help you develop your writing. (See Writer’s Inc. #359 for an example.)


 * 1) Reviewing: Review your class notes from the research, movie and/or class discussion for ideas and topics to write about. If you have a hard time starting or organizing your information, try free writing (writing thoughts without concern for grammar, topic, or organization), web organizers (Venn diagram included in this packet) or outlines.
 * 2) Generating the Text: Write down your theme or thesis of the paper. This is your overall statement of what your paper is about and usually found in your introduction paragraph. (See Writer’s Inc. # 025 and 168 for examples and more detailed information on a thesis.) Then choose the organization of your essay. You can do a point-by-point comparison of the subjects or address each subject separately. Whichever way you choose to write will work, but make sure each “side” gets equal treatment.
 * 3) Writing: Write your first draft, working in details and ideas according to your planning and organizing. Follow the general format for academic writing with an introduction paragraph including your thesis statement, body paragraphs with all the supporting details and a closing paragraph summing up your details.
 * 4) Revising: As you review your first draft, make sure that you have a clear thesis statement in your introduction paragraph. Also make sure you have made all of the main points of comparison between the two subjects, and that you have arranged the information in its best possible order. I have included a worksheet in this packet to help with your revision. You are required to have at least one person review each of your essays before completing the final essay and turning it in for a grade.
 * 5) Evaluating: Before you turn in your final draft make sure:
 * Your writing is organized so readers can understand the similarities and differences between the two subjects.
 * Specific details and examples support your main points.
 * Your writing forms a meaningful whole, moving smoothly from the opening paragraph to the closing thoughts.
 * Your readers will appreciate the treatment of the two subjects.
 * 1) Final Draft: After you have revised and made all the final corrections to your essay, compile all your rough drafts and peer revisions and turn them in along with a copy of your final draft.