Compare and Contrast Essay Techniques

The video tutorial from SNHU Online Writing Center guides viewers through compare and contrast analysis. It explains how to compare subjects, develop a thesis, and organize the analysis using subject-by-subject or point-by-point methods. The tutorial emphasizes supporting analysis with sources and visuals, and concludes with a recap of key points.

What is the primary goal of compare and contrast analysis?

• To create a fictional story

• To explore similarities and differences between subjects

• To summarize a single subject

• To list random facts

Which of the following is NOT a potential subject for comparison?

• Two foreign films

• A single novel

• Two classic books

• Two forms of government

How many subjects should you have at minimum for a compare and contrast essay?

• One

• Two

• Three

• Four

What are points of comparison in an essay?

• The themes or qualities being analyzed

• The main characters of a story

• The author's biography

• The number of pages in a book

In the sample analysis, which two children's books are compared?

• The Very Hungry Caterpillar and The Giving Tree

• Green Eggs and Ham and The Cat in the Hat

• Harry Potter and The Hobbit

• Charlotte's Web and Matilda

What is a simple thesis statement for the sample analysis?

• Both books are about animals.

• Both books explore give-and-take through methodical storyline and bold illustration.

• Both books are written by the same author.

• Both books are set in a forest.

What is one way to organize a compare and contrast analysis?

• Chronologically

• Subject-by-subject

• Alphabetically

• Randomly

In subject-by-subject organization, how is the analysis structured?

• By discussing all points of one subject before moving to the next

• By mixing points from both subjects

• By listing all points without explanation

• By focusing only on one point of comparison

What is the alternative to subject-by-subject organization?

• Point-by-point

• Chronological

• Random

• Alphabetical

Why is it important to choose one organization method and stick with it?

• To avoid confusion and maintain clarity

• To make the essay longer

• To include more subjects

• To impress the reader with complexity