Compare-and-Contrast Essay Outline
Name Class Date
Subject A Subject B
Basis for comparison (why these two belong together):
Comparison matrix
List the points you will compare, then note what is true of each subject. Mark whether the subjects are alike or different on each point.
Point | Subject A | Subject B | Alike or different |
|---|---|---|---|
1. [Point of comparison] | □ Similar □ Different | ||
2. [Point of comparison] | □ Similar □ Different | ||
3. [Point of comparison] | □ Similar □ Different | ||
4. [Point of comparison] | □ Similar □ Different | ||
5. [Point of comparison] | □ Similar □ Different |
Most important similarity and difference
Similarity:
Difference:
Writing outline
Structure: □ Block (all of A, then all of B) □ Point-by-point (A and B on each point)
I. Introduction
Hook:
Background on both subjects:
THESIS [State what the comparison reveals, not only that the subjects are alike and different.] |
II. Body
Body paragraph 1 | Body paragraph 2 | Body paragraph 3 | |
Point What this paragraph compares | |||
Subject A Evidence or details | |||
Subject B Evidence or details | |||
Analysis What the comparison shows |
III. Conclusion
Thesis restated:
Summary of the key similarities and differences:
Why the comparison matters: