Compare/Contrast Essay

Case 2: Compare/Contrast Essay

Length: no less than 1,000 words, double-spaced, Times New Roman, 12 pt font size.

This essay is to consist of your own thoughts, words, and ideas. No secondary sources are to be used in this essay.

The first person “I” is not used in a formal essay.

Case Assignment

For this assignment, you will choose one topic from the list below and write a comparison/contrast essay using three points of analysis. Please note that a compare/contrast essay may address similarities, differences, or both similarities and differences between two concepts or things.

A well-organized essay has a beginning, a middle, and an end. The beginning, or introduction, should include an opening sentence to grab your reader’s attention. Follow the opening sentence with a brief background on the topic or situation. The last sentence of the introduction is the thesis statement. The thesis states the main point of the essay, which in this case, would state what is being compared and/or contrasted.

A well-supported essay includes supporting points, details, and examples. An essay with three points may be divided into three body paragraphs, one for each point describing the term. For organizational purposes, the body may be structured in two ways: subject to subject or point by point. For example, an essay comparing and contrasting two vehicles might be organized as follows:

Subject to Subject

Body Paragraph 1: Ford (System, Features, Cost/Residual)

Body Paragraph 2: Ferrari (System, Features, Cost/Residual)

OR

Point by Point

Body Paragraph 1: Systems: Ford and Ferrari

Body Paragraph 2: Features: Ford and Ferrari

Body Paragraph 3: Cost/Residual: Ford and Ferrari

In either case, each body paragraph must begin with a topic sentence that states the main point of the paragraph.

The conclusion typically summarizes the main points of the essay and/or closes with a lasting impression that connects the reader to their world.

Be sure to proofread your essay and edit for proper grammar, punctuation, diction (word choice), and spelling, as errors in sentence skills will lower a final grade. A grade will be determined based on the Module 2 Case expectations and the Trident University General Education rubric for English found in the course syllabus.

• Compare and/or contrast two specific jobs.
• Compare and/or contrast two specific neighborhoods.
• Compare and/or contrast two hobbies.
• Compare and/or contrast two restaurants.
• Compare and/or contrast two military roles/careers.

Assignment Expectations

• Write a compare/contrast essay (no less than 1,000 words in length) that states an original thesis statement.
• Demonstrate the ability to write clearly and cohesively when expressing one’s ideas and/or intended purpose.
• Demonstrate the ability to clearly state and support a thesis in an organized and cohesive essay.