YSIS Ex pository
ANAL
Compare-Contrast Essay
Score 4 Benchmark Paper The writing focuses on the topic and purpose
given in the prompt. The paper conveys a sense of completeness and is well
organized, with two similarities discussed first, followed by two differences, all of
which are relevant. An introduction names the subjects, and a conclusion sums up
the main ideas. A topic sentence focuses each paragraph, and transitional words
connect ideas. Each similarity and difference is supported with exact details and
numerous examples (plain or fancy designs; health, history, and many other subjects;
Concerts, readings by famous writers, and political debates; dance programs and
silent movies). Word choice is mature and interesting. Sentences are varied and
include difficult constructions, such as sentences using semicolons. (See paragraphs 3
and 4.)
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Score 3 Benchmark Paper The writing mostly focuses on the topic and
purpose, but paragraphs 3 and 4 include material that is only loosely related. The
paper is fairly well organized, with features about TV discussed before those of
radio. Good topic sentences focus the paragraphs, but a few more transitional words
and phrases are needed. The introduction does not give the paper a sense of
direction, and the conclusion seems cut off. The writing gives enough interesting
details and examples to clarify similarities and differences (People use two senses . . .
to enjoy TV; a special class of people known as couch potatoes; hit preset buttons or
use a tuner). Word choice is, for the most part, precise and interesting. Sentences are
generally fluent and varied.
Score 2 Benchmark Paper The writing is somewhat focused on the topic
and purpose, but includes extraneous and unrelated material (paragraphs 2 and 6).
Organization is poor. Comparisons and contrasts are presented randomly, without a
pattern. There is no introduction, and the conclusion is very weak. Paragraphs are
awkward and undeveloped. Few details are given, and much of the word choice is
vague (Many things are being sold; information about lots of things; good for some
purposes). Some repeated words (such as thing and good) could be replaced with
synonyms, and antonyms could add contrast to weak comparisons (good programs
and not so good ones). Many sentences are short and sound the same.
Grade 7
Teaching Support
YSIS Ex pository
ANAL
Compare-Contrast Essay (continued)
Copyright © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
Score 1 Benchmark Paper The writing only slightly addresses the topic and
purpose. The paper is a fragmentary list of ideas that remain undeveloped. Only the
most general comparison and contrast is offered, and the list is not entirely focused
on the topic. There is no organizational pattern, paragraphing, or support. The
sentences are all short.
Teaching Support
Grade 7