Structuring a Compare and Contrast Essay

1. Introduction-thesis 2. Subject 1- topic sentence Trait 1 Trait 2 Trait 3 3. Subject 2 – topic sentence Trait 1 Trait 2 Trait 3 4. Conclusion

Subject by Subject

Comparing and Contrasting Summer and Winter in subject format

Introduction I. Summer – There are several characteristics that

contribute to summer being an enjoyable time of year Trait 1 Temperature Trait 2 Activities Trait 3 Colors 2. Winter – The characteristics of winter differ from summer

because winter conditions are often unbearable and less pleasant.

Trait 1 Temperature Trait 2 Activities Trait 3 Colors

Example

1. Introduction – thesis 2. Trait 1 – topic sentence Subject 1 Subject 2 3. Trait 2 – topic sentence Subject 1 Subject 2 4. Trait 3 – topic sentence Subject 1 Subject 2 5. Conclusion

Trait by Trait

Comparing and Contrasting summer and winter in trait by trait format

Introduction I. Temperature – The biggest difference between winter and

summer is the temperature. A. Summer B. Winter II. Activities – Summer and winter months are full of activities;

yet, the activities that take place are often quite different A. Summer B. Winter III. Colors – Although colors are present during both summer and

winter, they drastically differ. A. Summer B. Winter Conclusion

Example

Work plays a major role in controlling the lives of Alan and Bigger. Alan struggles to function with the pressure he feels from his demanding boss. He attempts to find another job, and he eventually finds one that interests him. Like Alan, Bigger also feels pressure and anxiety. He is working with a privileged family which often makes Bigger feel like a foreigner; therefore, Bigger also quits. However, unlike Alan, Bigger cannot find employment that he is passionate about.

Example Paragraph

Similarities and differences are identified with transitional words and phrases

Transitions must be used when going from one idea to the next

To compare use the following transitions:- also, likewise, similarly, in the same

manner, just as, in the same way- To contrast use the following transitions:- although, but, despite, even though,

however, in contrast, in spite of, nevertheless, on the other hand

Transitions

Transitions – pg 70 in College Writer

Example of Transitions