Compare and Contrast

1. Compare and Contrast

2. Finding similarities and differences: • You may be asked to compare and contrast literary elements within one selection • You may be asked to compare and contrast a particular element between two different selections or two different items • You may be asked to compare the following: characters, setting, subject, tone, main idea, author’s purpose, etc. • Usually asked as performance tasks questions

3. Sample questions: • How does Ebenezer Scrooge change over the course of A Christmas Carol? • What are the major differences in how beef and chicken are marketed in the United States? • Which poem presents a more positive, appealing view of a ceremony?

4. Finding the answers! When you’ve been asked the question(s) about the text: • Found in details IN THE PASSAGE – your job is to organize them! • Using a VENN diagram will prove useful • Differences are generally more difficult to identify • Always “steal the question” and ACE your response

5. Creating the answers! • Found in details YOU WRITE, in an organized and cohesive manner • Using a VENN diagram to PLAN will prove useful • Differences are generally more difficult to create and write – use template responses such as: can be classified into two subjects. There are types of , determined by… We have several levels of .

6. Some guidelines: • Check for words that signal differences (unlike, on the other hand, however, differently) and similarities (likewise, similarly, in the same way) as you plan your answer • Your answer should include a general statement suggesting why the similarities/differences are important • Keep your point organized and details in order