Not all compare and contrast assignments have writers compare and contrast in the same way. Some only ask for comparisons, others only ask for contrasts, and many require more focus than a simple list of similarities and differences. Breaking down an assignment to see what it requires is the first section of a handout on comparing and contrasting, part of a larger series of writing handouts. The handout also provides information on finding similarities and differences, developing a thesis, and determining how to organize a paper.

Concepts

compare and contrast, compare and contrast essays, compare and contrast texts

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Additional Tags

english language arts

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Instructional Ideas

• Provide writers with a compare/contrast assignment and go through the steps on the handout to complete it
• Print off different graphic organizers, such as Venn diagrams and T-charts, for scholars to identify similarities and differences

Classroom Considerations

• Non-commercial license allows printing for use in the classroom

Pros

• Provides hyperlinks to sites that provide additional information on the topic
• Covers different types of comparison and contrast papers, such as historical periods/events, ideas/theories, and pieces of writing/art

Cons

• Lacks clear examples of the different strategies and types of papers discussed

Common Core

W.9-10.2.a W.9-10.9.a W.11-12.2.a W.11-12.9.a