Compare and Contrast Essay: Literature or Life Compare and contrast two characters, stories or themes-- from literature or real life. A

successful essay will include:

Pre-Writing :

■ A Venn Diagram (pictured below)

■ A graphic organizer (point-by-point or subject-by-subject)

A draft with . . .

● Clearly identified items being compared and contrasted

● A draft with topic paragraphs

● A clear pattern of organization (point-by-point or subject by subject: see page R37 in

anthology)

● Specific examples that support your point

● Transition / Signal words

● An effective introduction and conclusion

● The “So What?” factor-- most importantly in the conclusion

A final draft with . . .

● Attention to spelling, capitalization, punctuation and grammar (in your final draft). Comparison & Contrast Essay Pre-Writing Brainstorm some topics here:

Venn Diagram

Audience: Purpose:

Topic Ideas 1. Compare and contrast Roger from “Thank You Ma’am” and Willie from “What Do Fish Have to Do With Anything?”. 2. Compare and contrast the homeless man from “What Do Fish...?” with Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones from “Thank You Ma’am” . 3. Compare and contrast Ben Price and Jimmy Valentine in “A Retrieved Reformation”. 4. Compare and contrast the language in The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian with the language in another book or story you’ve read. 4. Compare and contrast two characters’ internal conflicts:

● The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian: Junior & Rowdy● Wonder: Augie & Jack● The Giver: Jonas & The Giver● The Giver: Jonas & his father● Freak the Mighty: Freak and Mighty

5. Compare and contrast two characters from other stories you’ve been reading. 6