ENG 043 – Unit 2 Essay Compare/Contrast
Based on the Unit 2 readings, write a compare/contrast essay. The essay should be
written using point by point organization, with at least three body paragraphs. The essay
should be a combination of similarities and differences, not just one or the other. Please
use the following guidelines when writing this essay:
o You should feel free to compare/contrast the content of the essays, as well as the
writers and their style, tone, audience, purpose, etc.
o Your introduction should include some background information. For example,
you may want to give a sentence or two that summarizes each of the readings, or
indicates the each author’s purpose or argument. You should also state the points
of comparison and contrast.
o A clear thesis for a compare/contrast essay should do several things: 1. show the
two subjects that you are comparing/contrasting, 2. indicate that you will discuss
both similarities and differences, and 3. (optional) include your points. Your
points can also be stated separately.
o Each body paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that introduces the point
of comparison or contrast discussed in that paragraph. Then, be sure to discuss
details from each of the articles that support this topic sentence. Also, I’d like
you to include a brief response, your perspective on this particular point.
o Your conclusion should restate your thesis and give any final thoughts you have
about the articles. You can make a final argument or recommendation. Avoid
dead language like “in conclusion” or “in summary.”
This essay is worth 25% of your final course grade. Please remember that tutors are
available at the Writing Center, room 409, if you want additional feedback. See me if
you have any further questions.
As a class, we will determine what the specific grading criteria are for this essay.