2. GE 117 Composition I
Today’s Objectives
1) Define Comparison/Contrast as both
cognitive and writing processes
2) Identify common reasons/objectives for
Comparison/Contrast
3) Describe strategies to use
Comparison/Contrast effectively.
3. GE 117 Composition I
Comparison and Contrast – Chapter 16
Comparison – The analysis of how two or
more subjects are alike or similar.
Contrast – The analysis of how two or more
subjects are unalike or different.
4. GE 117 Composition I
Comparison/Contrast
Although all C/C essays are structured very
similarly, there are a variety of reasons
that one would use it as a writing model.
5. GE 117 Composition I
Comparison/Contrast
Reason 1 : To solely give information in a
straightforward, objective manner.
E.g. – What’s the difference between ale
and lager? (An ale is top fermented at a
higher temperature for a shorter period of
time. Lager is bottom fermented at a lower
temperature for a longer period of time)
6. GE 117 Composition I
Comparison/Contrast
Reason 2: To show that seemingly alike
subjects are actually different.
Ex– Football and Rugby or Cricket and
Baseball seem similar, but there are
actually drastic differences between the
two.
7. GE 117 Composition I
Comparison/Contrast
Reason 3: To show that seemingly different
subjects are actually quite similar.
Ex – Web browsers may look or feel quite
different, but they are actually quite similar
in their construction and application.
news.cnet.com/8301-17939_109-
10144186-2.html
8. GE 117 Composition I
Comparison/Contrast
Reason 4: To show that 1 subject is better
(according to some criteria) than another
or others.
This is perhaps the most common
application of C/C, especially when
making consumer decisions!
9. GE 117 Composition I
Comparison/Contrast
Helpful Strategies to keep in mind!
1) Only use subjects that are logically
similar and can be compared/contrasted
using the same criteria.
2) Remember to stay focused on your
overall purpose for the C/C : Reasons 1-
4 from before.
10. GE 117 Composition I
Comparison/Contrast
Practice Time!!!!!!
1. in-class reading of “The Virtues of Growing
Older” p 355
2. In-class reading of “And then I went to school”
p 371
3. In your thesis statement, identify the subjects
you will analyze and whether you will compare,
contrast, or both.
4. Select the points you will discuss about the
subjects, and only ones that back up your overall
11. GE 117 Composition I
Comparison/Contrast
5. Organize the points in 1 of 2 ways:
A) One-side-at-a-time method
B) Alternating or Point-by-point method
(See page 349 for examples)
6) Use transition words to help the reader:
Also, as well, similarly, likewise, in the same way
In contrast, on the other hand, but, although,
despite, however, but
13. GE 117 Composition I
Homework:
Using comparison-contrast, write a five paragraph
essay on one of the topics listed on page 376.
Your thesis should indicate whether the two
subjects are being compared, contrasted, or
both. Organize the paper by arranging the
details in a one-side-at-a-time or point-by-point
pattern. Remember to use organizational cues
to help the audience follow your analysis
