7.3 Comparison and Contrast

Comparison and contrast is a powerful tool for understanding complex ideas. By examining similarities and differences between subjects, we gain deeper insights into their unique characteristics and shared attributes.

This rhetorical strategy requires a clear thesis, balanced treatment of subjects, and effective organization. Writers can use point-by-point or subject-by-subject methods, employing specific transitions and vivid language to guide readers through the analysis.

Comparison and Contrast Structure

Purpose and Definition

Top images from around the web for Purpose and Definition

• 

  Analyzing Two Categories of Academic Writing Styles View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS for Reading/Writing Patterns – How to Learn Like a Pro! View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Drafting a Thesis Statement | English Composition 1 Corequisite View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Analyzing Two Categories of Academic Writing Styles View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS for Reading/Writing Patterns – How to Learn Like a Pro! View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Purpose and Definition

• 

  Analyzing Two Categories of Academic Writing Styles View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS for Reading/Writing Patterns – How to Learn Like a Pro! View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Drafting a Thesis Statement | English Composition 1 Corequisite View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Analyzing Two Categories of Academic Writing Styles View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS for Reading/Writing Patterns – How to Learn Like a Pro! View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Comparison and contrast examines similarities and differences between subjects, ideas, or concepts
• Provides deeper understanding by highlighting unique characteristics and shared attributes
• Requires clear thesis statement articulating main idea or argument
• Conclusion synthesizes similarities and differences discussed
• Reinforces significance of the comparison

Organizational Methods

• Point-by-point (alternating) method compares subjects on each criterion before moving to next
• Subject-by-subject (block) method discusses all points for one subject before moving to next
• Effective writing balances treatment of similarities and differences
• Avoids bias towards one aspect over the other

Language and Transitions

• Employs transitional words and phrases specific to comparison (similarly, likewise)
• Uses contrast-specific transitions (however, on the other hand)
• Creates coherence and flow in writing
• Utilizes vivid and precise language to describe subject characteristics
• Enables readers to visualize and understand comparisons

Analyzing Comparison and Contrast

Criteria and Focus

• Writers employ specific criteria or points of comparison
• Ensures meaningful and focused analysis of subjects
• Balances treatment of similarities and differences
• Avoids bias towards one aspect over the other
• Strategic use of examples and evidence supports claims about similarities and differences (historical events, scientific studies)

Techniques for Effective Comparison

• Incorporates analogies and metaphors to make abstract comparisons concrete
• Reveals unexpected insights or connections between disparate subjects
• Enriches reader's understanding through strategic comparisons
• Uses comparison within larger argumentative or analytical frameworks
• Strengthens overall thesis or position through comparative analysis

Language and Presentation

• Employs vivid and precise language to describe subject characteristics
• Enables readers to visualize and understand comparisons
• Incorporates visual aids (Venn diagrams, comparison charts)
• Supplements written comparisons
• Makes complex relationships more accessible

Organizing Comparison Essays

Pre-writing and Planning

• Define subjects to be compared and specific aspects or criteria for comparison
• Create detailed outline mapping essay structure (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion)
• Choose between point-by-point or subject-by-subject method
• Ensure balanced treatment of subjects and aspects (equal attention to similarities and differences)

Paragraph Structure

• Include clear topic sentence for each paragraph
• Relate topic sentence back to thesis
• Introduce specific point of comparison or contrast
• Use transitional phrases and sentences between points and paragraphs
• Guide readers smoothly through the comparison

Conclusion Strategies

• Synthesize main points of comparison and contrast
• Articulate significance or implications of analysis
• Reinforce thesis and overall purpose of comparison
• Provide final insights or reflections on the subjects compared

Comparison and Contrast Techniques

Contextualizing and Perspective

• Provide context and perspective through comparison
• Help readers understand complex ideas by relating to familiar concepts
• Highlight unique features of main subject by juxtaposing with others
• Challenge assumptions or misconceptions by comparing expected vs. actual outcomes
• Demonstrate evolution of ideas, techniques, or phenomena over time or contexts

Analytical Applications

• Evaluate different solutions, methodologies, or theories
• Support reasoned arguments for particular approaches
• Explore cause-and-effect relationships by comparing situations with different variables
• Analyze historical events by comparing and contrasting different time periods or cultures
• Examine literary works by comparing themes, characters, or writing styles

Visual and Supplementary Techniques

• Integrate Venn diagrams to illustrate overlapping and distinct characteristics
• Use comparison charts to organize and present data side-by-side
• Incorporate timelines to compare events or developments across different periods
• Employ before-and-after comparisons to demonstrate changes or impacts
• Utilize infographics to visually represent complex comparative data