INTERMEDIATE WRITING PAPER
“Comparison and contrast organization: Point by point Style”
Supporting Lecturer : Dr. Utami Dewi, S.Pd, M.Hum
Arranged by : Group 9
TBI : III /SEMESETER III
Tara Arini : 0304213056
Santi Sari Devi Manurung : 0304213043
Qorri fadhilah : 0304213065
DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH EDUCATION
FACULTY OF TARBIYAH AND TEACHER TRAINING
THE STATE ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY OF NORTH SUMATRA
MEDAN / 2022
PREFACE
First of all, thanks to Allah SWT because of the help of Allah, writer finished writing the
paper entitled “Comparison and contrast organization: Point by point Style” right in the
calculated time. The purpose in writing this paper is to fulfill the assignment that given by Mam
Dr. UtamiDewi, S.Pd, M.Hum as lecturer in Intermediate Writing major. In arranging this paper,
the writer trully get lots challenges and obstructions but with help of many indiviuals, those
obstructions could passed. writer also realized there are still many mistakes in process of writing
this paper.
Because of that, the writer says thank you to all individuals who helps in the process of
writing this paper. hopefullyallah replies all helps and bless you all.the writer realized tha this
paper still imperfect in arrangment and the content. then the writer hope the criticism from the
readers can help the writer in perfecting the next paper.last but not the least Hopefully, this paper
can helps the readers to gain more knowledge about Intermediate Writing major.
Medan, 5 Desember 2022
Group 11
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE........................................................................................................................................2
TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................................................3
CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................4
1. Background of Study............................................................................................................4
2. Problem Formulation............................................................................................................4
3. Purpose.................................................................................................................................4
CHAPTER II DISCUSSION...........................................................................................................5
A. Definition of A compare-and-contrast essay....................................................................5
B. The Purpose of Compare/Contrast in Writing..................................................................5
C. The Structure of a Compare/Contrast Essay : (point by point).......................................6
D. Organization of Compare-and-contrast essays.................................................................7
E. Point By Point Format.......................................................................................................7
F. How to write a compare-and-contrast essay (example).......................................................8
CHAPTER III CLOSING..............................................................................................................10
A. Conclusion......................................................................................................................10
B. Suggestion.......................................................................................................................10
REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................11
CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
1. Background of Study
Compare and contrast essays are academic papers in which a student analyses two or
more subjects with each other. To compare means to explore similarities between subjects, while
to contrast means to look at their differences. Both subjects of the comparison are usually in the
same category, although they have their differences. For example, it can be two movies, two
universities, two cars etc.
Good compare and contrast papers focus on a central point, explaining the importance
and implications of this analysis. A compare and contrast essay thesis must make a meaningful
comparison. Find the central theme of your essay and do some brainstorming for your thesis.
2. Problem Formulation
1. What is the compare-and-contrast essay?
2. what is the purpose of Comparing/Comparing in Writing?
3. How to Compare-and-contrast essay Organizations?
4. How to write a compare-and-contrast essay
3. Purpose
1. Knowing about the compare-and-contrast essay
2. Knowing about the purpose of Comparing/Comparing in Writing.
3. understand to How to Compare-and-contrast essay Organizations.
4. understand to How to write a compare-and-contrast essay.
CHAPTER II
DISCUSSION
A. Definition of A compare-and-contrast essay
A compare-and-contrast essay is a style of essay that points out the similarities and
differences between two or more subjects. It’s ideal for showing what separates and unites
related things or concepts, particularly if the subjects are often confused for each other or
unjustly lumped together.
Compare-and-contrast essays have a lot in common with other essay types, but differ in
many ways, too—and that’s the heart of comparing and contrasting! By seeing the differences
and similarities, the reader better understands each of the subjects by using the other subject as a
frame of reference.
In this guide, we explain how to write a compare-and-contrast essay, including some
advanced tips and examples. We discuss how to structure your essay and how to frame your
thesis, but first, let’s take a broader look at why comparison essays are so useful.
B. The Purpose of Compare/Contrast in Writing
Comparison in writing discusses elements that are similar, while contrast in writing
discusses elements that are different. A compare-and-contrast essay, then, analyzes two subjects
by comparing them, contrasting them, or both.
The key to a good compare-and-contrast essay is to choose two or more subjects that
connect in a meaningful way. The purpose of conducting the comparison or contrast is not to
state the obvious but rather to illuminate subtle differences or unexpected similarities. For
example, if you wanted to focus on contrasting two subjects you would not pick apples and
oranges; rather, you might choose to compare and contrast two types of oranges or two types of
apples to highlight subtle differences. For example, Red Delicious apples are sweet, while
Granny Smiths are tart and acidic. Drawing distinctions between elements in a similar category
will increase the audience’s understanding of that category, which is the purpose of the compare-
and-contrast essay.
C. The Structure of a Compare/Contrast Essay : (point by point)
When using point-by-point method, arrange your paragraph according to the main points,
rather than by topic. The paragraph will discuss each of your main points, but include
discussions of both topics as they relate to each of your points.
For example, if you were using a point-by-point method to compare and contrast
academic writing and professional writing, you might talk about similarities and differences
regarding their paragraph structure, point of view, and tone.
If you are using the point-by-point method, organize your paragraph in the following
way:
A. Start with a Topic Sentence: Your first sentence should introduce both topics to your
reader and state the main point of the paragraph.
B. Compare/Contrast by Point: Your paragraph will discuss each of the main points of both
topics. For example:
C. End with a Concluding Sentence: Conclude your paragraph by stating your decision as to
which topic you prefer and why, or by explaining the purpose of the comparison. You
can be persuasive in this final sentence or two, leaving your reader with the impression of
your opinion.
D. Organization of Compare-and-contrast essays
Compare-and-contrast essays follow our own recommended essay structure. While the
linked guide goes into more detail, in a nutshell, your compare-and-contrast essay should follow
a simple format of beginning, middle, and end:
Introduction: where you explain your thesis or what your essay will discuss
Body: where you actually list the similarities and differences of your subjects; the largest
section
Conclusion: where you wrap up and summarize your points
The introduction, usually one or two paragraphs, should include a thesis statement to
show the reader what to expect for the rest of your essay. You can write your introduction
following the same guidelines as other essay types, though be sure to mention all your subjects.
Likewise, you can write an essay conclusion with the standard rules and best practices.
It’s the body where compare-and-contrast essays get tricky. Do you write about both
subjects at the same time, or switch back and forth? Let’s talk deeper on this below.
E. Point By Point Format
There are two methods of developing body paragraphs in a comparison or contrast essay.
Details (supportive evidence / examples) can be presented in a one-side-at-a-time format or in a
point-by-point format. In this module, we will look at the second format – point–by- point.
In this format you will compare and contrast one single aspect of the two items in one
paragraph. You need to mention the two items in the paragraph, and present the differences or
similarities between them in regards to this particular point.
For example, if we use the topic of video rentals vs. theaters, in the first paragraph we
could talk exclusively about the money that you can save or the differences between renting
videos or going to the theaters in terms of prices. YOU MUST include only evidence or details
related to money.Then, in the 2nd paragraph, we could cover the aspect of being comfortable vs.
not comfortable in both places. Finally, the last body paragraph could address the time factor for
both activities.
The additional sentences in each body paragraph will provide the evidence or the support
needed to back up the topic sentence and the general thesis. These sentences are concrete
examples that will illustrate your point to the readers. For example, to illustrate paragraph one
(saving money), you can mention the price of the video rental vs. the price of the tickets at the
theater; when you rent a movie, everybody can watch it for the same price, at the theater, you
pay for separate tickets, popcorn and other snacks, gasoline, and other expenses.
F. How to write a compare-and-contrast essay (example)
When writing a compare-and-contrast essay, it helps to figure out two things: what your
thesis is (the subject matter) and how you plan to structure it.
Thesis
First things first: You need to choose which subjects you’re comparing. This isn’t always
easy, especially if you have to pick the subjects on your own.
For inspiration, here are some compare-and-contrast essay example topics:
Opposing options for a certain category
fossil fuels and renewable resources
Coca-Cola and Pepsi
Related works of arts or cultural movements
Mona Lisa and The Girl with a Pearl Earring
’80s punk rock music and ’90s grunge music
People who are similar, connected, or associated with each other
Elon Musk and Thomas Edison
The state of affairs at different time periods
London in the 1600s and London now
The LGBTQIA+ community before and after Stonewall
Two different but related places
Roman Empire and Greek Empire
Opposing theories or beliefs
loop quantum gravity and string theory
evolution and creationism
Opposing viewpoints or opinions
liberalism and conservatism
Topics that are often confused with each other
fascism and despotism
Once you’ve settled on your subjects, you can begin generating ideas. It helps to first list
all the similarities and differences between your subjects. When you see them all written down,
you can start formulating connections and decide what structure to use for your compare-and-
contrast essay.
If you’re stuck, try making a Venn diagram. This is a visual aid that helps you understand
which characteristics your subjects share, and which ones are exclusive.
Looking at your lists, you can then decide on the thesis. To do so, ask yourself a few
questions: What are you trying to show in your compare-and-contrast essay? What do you want
your reader to take away? For example, do you want to emphasize that Elon Musk is a modern-
day Thomas Edison, or that they are tey two very distinct individuals?
CHAPTER III
CLOSING
A. Conclusion
The purpose of conducting the comparison or contrast is not to state the obvious but
rather to illuminate subtle differences or unexpected similarities. For example, if you wanted to
focus on contrasting two subjects you would not pick apples and oranges; rather, you might
choose to compare and contrast two types of oranges or two types of apples to highlight subtle
differences.
Compare-and-contrast essays follow our own recommended essay structure. While the
linked guide goes into more detail, in a nutshell, your compare-and-contrast essay should follow
a simple format of beginning, middle, and end:
Introduction: where you explain your thesis or what your essay will discuss
Body: where you actually list the similarities and differences of your subjects; the largest
section
Conclusion: where you wrap up and summarize your points
B. Suggestion
We are aware that there are still many shortcomings that we have, both in the writings and
discussions that we present, therefore please give us your suggestions so that we can make better
papers, and hopefully this paper can be useful for all of us, and become our insight in
understandparagraphs
REFERENCES
Claudio, A. M. (2005). Comparison and Contrast Essay. CHART, 500, 1.
https://www.kellogg.edu/upload/eng151/chapter/writing-for-success-comparecontrast/
index.html#:~:text=A%20compare%2Dand%2Dcontrast%20essay%20analyzes%20two
%20subjects%20by%20either,unexpected%20similarities%20between%20two%20subjects
https://www.grammarly.com/blog/compare-contrast/
https://writingcenter.uagc.edu/compare-contrast-assignments
