8 comparing and contrasting: computers and technology

8Comparing and Contrasting: Computers and Technology

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Learning Outcomes

• Identify real world applications for comparing and contrasting.

• Understand the steps for comparing and contrasting.

• Interpret images and readings about computers and technology.

33Learning Outcomes (contd.)

• Analyze the rhetorical situation for comparing and contrasting.

• Apply the steps for writing a comparison and contrast essay.

44Real World Applications (LO 8.1)

School• You may be required to find the

similarities and differences between two school subjects.

• You may compare and contrast two

literary characters..

55Real World Applications (contd.)

Daily Life• You make comparisons daily when

selecting what meal to eat or which groceries to buy.

• You may compare and contrast two

cars before making a purchase.

66Real World Applications (contd.)

Career• You may need to compare and

contrast two job offers before choosing one.

• You may need to compare and contrast two pieces of equipment for your office.

77Steps for Writing Compare & Contrast Essays (LO 8.2)

• Begin by identifying the elements you are going to compare.

• Use a block or point-by-point approach.

• Describe your subjects fairly and accurately.

• Consider using an analogy.

• Use transitions to help your writing flow smoothly.

• Conclude logically.

88The Rhetorical Star (LO 8.4)

Subject• Only compare two items at a time while

mastering this writing strategy.• You may choose two different items

that seem similar.• You may choose two similar items

that seem different.• Make sure your comparison has a

worthwhile point.

99The Rhetorical Star (contd.)

Purpose• Make sure to have a clear reason

for making the comparison.• Keep focused on your purpose.


Audience• Determine who your readers will be.• Decide what details will be the most

critical for your readers.


Strategy• Determine if you are simply exploring

similarities and differences.• Decide if combined strategies are

necessary.


Design• Determine the number of points

necessary to make your comparison and contrast clear to the reader.

• Decide if graphic elements are needed to clarify any points.

• Choose your organizational structure.

1313Applying the Writing Process (LO 8.5)

Discovering• Make sure you have a valid point

for your readers to consider.• Consider brainstorming or free-

writing to gather ideas.

1414Applying the Writing Process (contd.)

Planning• Make a list of similarities and

differences.• Narrow the list to determine the

points most interesting and beneficial to the audience.

• Use a Venn Diagram to organize your thoughts.


Planning (contd.)• Write a thesis that makes a

significant point.• Decide whether the block or

point-by-point method would be more appropriate.

• Create an outline.


Composing• Write a first draft, using the steps

from the chapter as a guide.• Don’t focus on grammar and

punctuation during this step.• Work on fully developing the details

related to each subject you are comparing and contrasting.


Getting Feedback• Ask someone to read your rough

draft and answer the peer review questions.

• Get a second opinion as well, if possible.

• Ask your reviewer if your overall approach was effective.


Revising• Using the feedback provided, revise

your essay.• Make sure you’ve given fair coverage

to each subject.• Ensure that the points flow smoothly.• Add, delete, or rearrange ideas as

needed.• Decide if the organizational

method you selected is the best choice.


Editing• Read your essay again.• Check for errors in grammar,

punctuation, and mechanics.• Carefully review your word choice.


Proofreading• Read your essay at least one

more time.• Look for typing errors.• Check for errors that may interfere

with the reader’s understanding of the essay.

8 comparing and contrasting: computers and technology

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