22. Comparison/contrast essay.

Main characteristics and features of comparison/contrast essay. Three organizational methods of a comparison or contrast writing. Whole-by-whole and part-by-part comparison/contrast. Analogy as a special form of comparison. Components contributing to the unity in comparison/contrast essays. Transition expressions creating essay coherence.

Comparison-contrast essay is used then the writer want to compare or contrast two or more things.

Comparison brings similar things for examination to see “how they are”. An effective comparison demonstrate one of following purposes:

1. 2 things thought to be different are shown to be similar.

2. 2 things thought to be similar are shown to be quite different.

3. 2 things thought to be comparable are shown to be not equal, that is one better than the other.

Contrast show the differences. The 1st thing in comparing or contrast is establish a basis, on which to evaluate the items. If you have one basis it’s will be more simple to develop your essay. The more criterion you use – the more precise your analyses will be.

3 Methods of a cause-effect essay organization:

1. Comparison only. if there are more similarities then differences, you might decide to do a comparison essay and mainly point out the similarities of the two subjects.

2. Contrast only. If there are more differences than similarities, you might decide to do a contrast essay and primarily focus on the differences between the two subjects.

3. Comparison/contrast essay. If the number of similarities and differences is about the same, you might find that essay discussing both similarities and differences is appropriate.

You may organize your essay in blocks or a whole-by-whole or in sequence. In blocks each object of comparison is presented separately. Comparison discussion is organized around each separate item of thing being compared. Schematically a blocked comparison is simple enough, but it requires that a writer arranges all the blocks of comparison. Before starting to write in sequencing, the items are compared point-by-point discussion is organized around characteristics of the items being compared. This is tradition way for people to think.

A successful comparison has the following qualities.

- a valid basis for comparison

- a limited focus and information that will catch a reader’s attention

A special form of comparison is analogy. In this way one part of comparison is used to describe the other part. Analogies use very familiar objects for comparison, trying explain something new and unfamiliar. Analogies make descriptions more vivid (живыми) and interesting.

At least 3 things can help to contribute better unity in a comparison/contrast:

1. Using 2 equivalent topics. It’s illogical to compare two items that arent’s equivalent.

2. Including solid supporting points. You should use a list of points to be used in your comparison or contrast.

3. Creating a clear focus on comparison, contrast or comparison/contrast. You should clearly demonstrate your purpose.

Transition expressions to create essay coherence:

both, not only… but also, nevertheless, on the hand…. on the other hand, in contrast, like…, though, even though.