AP World History Comparative Essay Set-Up

Below is the basic essay structure for a 5-paragraph comparative essay. Each piece of evidence (fact or example) would be
supported by at least one piece of analysis (the so what or why) that would analyze the evidence and connect it to the thesis.
PROMPT: Compare the social, political, and economic factors of the American and French Revolutions
Characteristics (Evidence) of American Revolution
#1:___________________________________(10pts.)

Characteristics (Evidence) of French Revolution

#2:___________________________________(10pts.)

1.

1.

2.

2.

3.

3.

4.

4.

5.

5.

Key Similarities (Topic Sentences) Written in COMPLETE SENTENCES (10pts.)

1.
2.
Key Differences (Topic Sentences) Written in COMPLETE SENTENCES (10pts.)
1.
2.
Reasons for Similarities and Differences (Analysis) Written in COMPLETE SENTENCES (10pts.)
1.
2.
3.
4.

AP World History Thesis Paragraph Development

PROMPT: Compare the social, political, and economic factors of the American and French Revolutions

Background Introduction (5pts.)

Place your essay in the larger context of world history. Set the stage by showing how, when, and where this topic relates to the
rest of world history.

Thesis Sentence (10pts.)

Circle one of the beginnings below and then continue with the rest of your thesis based on the outline you created. DO NOT just re-write the
prompt.

While/ Although / In spite-of / Despite

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Rest of Thesis Paragraph (aka forcast of the rest of your essay) (10pts.)
Include a brief summary of how you will prove your thesis (in other words, preview the topic sentences of each paragraph to come.)

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