Comparison and Contrast in Writing

The video introduces the concept of comparison and contrast in writing, explaining how these techniques are often used alongside other rhetorical patterns. It uses the example of a giraffe to demonstrate how comparison and contrast can clarify understanding. The video outlines three main reasons for employing these techniques in essays: to describe or define an item, to discuss subjects in relation to a general principle, and to help readers understand unfamiliar concepts. Finally, it describes two methods for organizing comparison and contrast essays: the block method and the alternating method.

What is a common use of comparison and contrast in writing?

• To make the text longer

• To clarify ideas by relating them to known concepts

• To confuse the reader

• To avoid using other rhetorical patterns

How did the father describe a giraffe to his child?

• By describing its diet

• By comparing it to a horse and a leopard

• By comparing it to a tree

• By explaining its habitat

Why is it important to choose a familiar item for comparison?

• To make the essay longer

• To ensure the reader can relate to the comparison

• To avoid using examples

• To confuse the reader

Which of the following is NOT a reason for using comparison and contrast?

• To tell the reader something about both subjects

• To describe or define an item

• To make the essay longer

• To explain general principles

What is a general principle that can be used to compare the Texas Senate and England's Parliament?

• Anarchy

• Dictatorship

• Representative government

• Monarchy

How can comparison and contrast help in understanding social science?

• By showing commonalities between psychology, history, and economics

• By comparing it to unrelated fields

• By ignoring economics

• By focusing only on psychology

What is a key benefit of using comparison and contrast in essays?

• To confuse the reader

• To help readers understand unfamiliar concepts

• To make the essay more complex

• To avoid using examples

What is an example of using comparison and contrast to explain government?

• Comparing American democracy to a dictatorship

• Comparing American democracy to a monarchy

• Comparing American democracy to a business model

• Comparing American democracy, British parliamentary rule, and the Russian system

What is the block method in organizing essays?

• Discussing both items simultaneously

• Mixing both items randomly

• Presenting one item fully before discussing the other

• Ignoring one item completely

What is the alternating method in essay organization?

• Discussing one item fully before the other

• Discussing both items simultaneously

• Presenting parts of each item alternately

• Ignoring one item completely