This document provides guidance on writing a comparison essay by outlining two common organizational patterns - trait by trait and subject by subject. It also recommends including a thesis statement in the last sentence of the introductory paragraph stating the purpose of the comparison. The body paragraphs should identify similarities and differences between subjects using appropriate transitional phrases. Resources for comparing colleges, careers, and transferring credits between schools are also listed.

1. Comparing Colleges/Programs/Careers

2. Model of Graphic Organizer

3. Patterns of Organization Trait by Trait 1 - Introduction – thesis - the last sentence of 1st paragraph 2 – Trait 1 – topic sentence subject 1 subject 2 3 – Trait 2 – topic sentence subject 1 subject 2 4 – Trait 3 – topic sentence 5 – Trait 4, etc. 5 - Conclusion Subject by Subject 1 - Introduction – thesis - the last sentence of 1st paragraph 2 – Subject 1 – topic sentence Trait 1 Trait 2 3 – Subject 2 – topic sentence Trait 1 Trait 2 4 – Subject 3 – topic sentence 5 – Subject 4, etc. 5 - Conclusion

4. Introduction The introduction to your composition should present the subjects being compared and state the purpose of your comparison. To draw your readers in, you might want to begin by showing a striking contrast or an often overlooked similarity between your subjects. The last sentence of your introductory paragraph MUST be your thesis statement.

5. Similarities and differences are identified with appropriate transitional words and phrases in your essay. Be sure that these are included in the body paragraphs of your essay. To compare: also, in the same way, likewise, similarly, in the same manner, just as, too To contrast: although, and yet, but, but at the same time, despite, even so, even though, for all that, however, in contrast, in spite of nevertheless, notwithstanding, on the contrary, on the other hand, regardless, still, though, yet

6. Comparing Side by Side Colleges http://www.collegeview.com/collegesearch/CompareSchools.jsp?scid=1100933,2800158,1100377 Occupational Outlook Handbook http://www.bls.gov/search/ooh.htm

7. Transfer Equivalency Credits Transferring credits to Kansas State Transferring credits to Wichita State Transferring credits to KU

8. Wichita State http://www.wichita.edu/thisis/