The document discusses the comparison-contrast essay, which analyzes the similarities and/or differences between two items. There are two methods for organizing this type of essay - the point-by-point method, where each point about the two items is discussed in separate paragraphs, or the block method, where the points about one item are discussed together in one paragraph and then the other item in the next paragraph. The purpose of this essay is usually to persuade, explain, or inform the reader rather than just point out similarities and differences.

1. The Comparison-Contrast Essay. Prof. Julia I. Martínez The Comparison-Contrast Essay

2. The Comparison-Contrast Essay. Prof. Julia I. Martínez It is an essay that analyses the similarities and/or differences between two items Sometimes, the writer includes at the end an opinion or evaluation about them (e.g., A is better than B) Usually, the purpose is not simply to point out similarities and differences, but to persuade, explain or inform.

3. The Comparison-Contrast Essay. Prof. Julia I. Martínez How is this type of essay organised? There are two possibilities: The point-by-point method The block method

4. The Comparison-Contrast Essay. Prof. Julia I. Martínez The point-by-point method I. Introduction (hook, background info, thesis statement) II. Body a. Paragraph 1: Point 1 (item A and B) b. Paragraph 2: Point 2 (item A and B) c. Paragraph 3: Point 3 (item A and B) III. Conclusion

5. The Comparison-Contrast Essay. Prof. Julia I. Martínez The block method I. Introduction (hook, background information, thesis statement) II. Body a. Paragraph 1: Item A (points 1, 2 and 3) b. Paragraph 2: Item B (points 1, 2 and 3) III. Conclusion Note: this method is more useful if you are going to do both comparison and contrast in your essay.

6. The Comparison-Contrast Essay. Prof. Julia I. Martínez Some things to take into account: Try to choose two items that can actually be compared/contrasted Choose the most important points of comparison/contrast and focus on them Use appropriate transition signals either to indicate comparison or contrast