NROC Developmental English Foundations

Developing an Outline for a Compare and Contrast Essay

Learning Objectives:

Determine subjects worthy of comparison.
Develop points of comparison to support a thesis.
Develop point-by-point and subject-by-subject outlines.

LESSON
Compare and contrast essaysA written discussion of both the similarities and differences between people, objects, or ideas. This type of essay shows how things are alike in some ways (compare) as well as how they are different in other ways (contrast). are a common assignment in college. You may be asked to compareTo draw similarities between people, objects, or concepts. two authorsA person who wrote a text., two methods for ratifying Constitutional amendments, or two events. No matter what you compare, it is helpful to develop an outlineA preliminary plan for a piece of a writing, often in the form of a list. It should include a topic, audience, purpose, thesis statement, and main and supporting points. . In this lesson, you will learn how to identify subjectsThe people, places, things, or ideas being discussed or described. to compare, develop points of comparisonThe criteria by which subjects are compared and/or contrasted., and choose the best organizational strategyA plan for arranging the structure of an outline or essay. There are many different strategies, such as point-by-point, subject-by-subject, or order of events. for your outline.

Determining Subjects Worthy of Comparison

While it is theoretically possible to compare any two people, places, events, ideas, etc., it would not make sense to compare Mark Twain with a wind turbine. Worthy subjects should at least be part of a similar class of things and they should also have enough in common with each other that the comparison makes sense.

Example:

Apples versus fruit: This comparison does not make sense because apples are a type of fruit.

Apples versus oranges: This is a better comparison because they are both types of fruit.

Developing Points of Comparison to Support a Thesis

Once you have determined the two subjects that you will compare, you will need to decide what criteriaThe standards or rules used to decide or judge something. you will use to compare the two. These are your points of comparison. Be sure that you can actually evaluateTo make a judgment about the quality of something. For example, you can evaluate an essay by examining the accuracy of the information or the strength of the arguments. each subject by the criteria that you choose.

You could begin this process of developing your points of comparison by using any one of a number of graphic organizersPictorial tools used to brainstorm and arrange ideas before writing, such as webbing diagrams, flow charts, story maps, and Venn diagrams. , such as a web diagramA prewriting technique where the author creates an informal visual layout of possible ideas and then draws lines to connect them into a type of "web." The objective is to see connections between events and characters.. Another way is to simply brainstormA prewriting technique where the author lists multiple ideas as he or she thinks of them, not considering one more than another until all ideas are captured. The objective is to create one great idea, or many ideas, on which to base a writing. everything you know or have learned about each subject individually. Then you can look for common points of comparison.

Here is an example that compares apples to oranges.

Apples

Oranges

Many colors, shades of red, green, and yellow
Johnny Appleseed
Smooth
Variety of flavors
Commonly eaten plain
Used in sweet and savory foods
Eaten raw or cooked
Prices vary by region/season/variety, as little as $0.88/lb and as much as $2/lb
Grown across the U.S. but in more moderate to cool climates like Washington, New York, Michigan, Minnesota
"An apple a day keeps the doctor away" - health

Usually orange, but variety of shades
Dimpled
Peels are not eaten
Sweet-sour, depending on the ripeness
Commonly eaten plain
Commonly used in salads or cooked in main dishes, like duck a l’orange
Prices vary by region/season/variety
Grown in warmer parts of the U.S. such as Florida and California
Vitamin C, minerals, fiber

Based on this initial brainstorming, the two fruits could be compared on any of the following:

Taste
Color
Texture (both inside and out)
Price
Availability
Growing location
Health benefits
Recipes where they can be used

With additional research and thought, more comparisons could be found. Keep in mind, you must always be certain that you are making parallelUsing the same pattern of words to describe ideas in order to create balance in a writing. Parallel structure can be at the word-, phrase-, clause-, sentence-, and even paragraph-level. comparisons. If you are describing the taste and color of apples, then make sure you are doing the same for oranges, rather than focusing on taste and texture.

Organizing a Compare and Contrast Essay

There are two major ways to organize a compare and contrast essay: point-by-pointAn organizational strategy for a comparison or compare and contrast essay. In this method, the writer lists the major points of comparison/contrast between subjects, and discusses them one at a time. A point-by-point comparison is useful for subjects that have many points of comparison because the reader can consider both subjects side-by-side. or subject-by-subjectAn organizational strategy for a comparison or compare and contrast essay. In this method, a single subject is discussed in detail, followed by a similar examination of the other subject. A subject-by-subject comparison is best used for less complex arguments that have fewer points, so that the reader can remember the points made about the first subject while learning about the second.. A point-by-point comparison is useful for complicated subjects that have many points of comparison because your reader can view both subjects side-by-side with each point of comparison. However, be sure to keep the essay flowing when using this method. Point-by-point comparisons tend to read like a ping pong match if you switch too quickly between points (ex. point A, point B, point A, point B). Make sure to use effective transitionsTying two events, passages, or pieces of information together in a smooth way. In writing, transitions are sometimes called links. to avoid this "back and forth" feeling. Conversely, a subject-by-subject comparison is better reserved for less complex subjects that have fewer points. This method is naturally more cohesive, but it can be light on content if you are not monitoring how much support you develop.

Point-by-point outline

Introductory Paragraph
1. Hook
2. Tone
3. Background
4. Thesis
Body Paragraphs
1. Point of comparison 1
  1. Subject A (Evidence)
  2. Subject B (Evidence)
  3. Analysis*
  4. Link to next paragraph
2. Point of comparison 2
  1. Subject A (Evidence)
  2. Subject B (Evidence)
  3. Analysis*
  4. Link to next paragraph
3. Point of comparison 3
  1. Subject A (Evidence)
  2. Subject B (Evidence)
  3. Analysis*
  4. Link to next paragraph
Concluding Paragraph
1. Synthesis
2. Final impression

*Analysis could go after each subject (evidence) in the paragraph, or come after both as shown above.

Here is an example of a point-by-point outline.

German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers

Introductory Paragraph
1. Hook: According to the American Kennel Club, golden retrievers and German shepherds have both been among the top three most popular dog breeds in the United States.
2. Tone: Informal
3. Background: Their popularity stems, in part, from their shared intelligence and ability to serve and keep company.
4. Thesis: Despite sharing these characteristics, German shepherds and golden retrievers are very different breeds, and potential owners must understand these differences to ensure they choose the breed best suited to their homes.
Body Paragraphs
1. Point of comparison 1: Temperament
  1. Subject A: German Shepherds
    1. Intelligent
    2. Fast
    3. Keen sense of smell
    4. Loyal
    5. Aggressive; fearless
    6. Active
    7. Curious
    8. Over-protective if not socialized properly
    9. Territorial
    10. Do not care for strangers
    11. Defensive
    12. Work without being distracted
  2. Subject B: Golden Retrievers
    1. Intelligent
    2. Loyal
    3. Friendly
    4. Kind
    5. Calm
    6. Eager to please
    7. Patient
    8. Naturally sociable
    9. Willing to learn
    10. Patient with children
    11. Poor guard dogs
    12. Not aggressive to people or other animals
  3. Analysis: Families must be aware of a breed's disposition before bringing a dog into their home. Families who are unprepared to properly socialize a dog should think twice before adopting a German shepherd.
  4. Link to next paragraph: While temperament is one consideration, families should also consider how the two breeds differ physically.
2. Point of comparison 2: Physical Characteristics
  1. Subject A: German Shepherds
    1. Fast
    2. Strong
    3. Keen sense of smell
    4. Generally tan with black back and snout; also black, white, sable, liver, and blue varieties
    5. Range from 50-90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches in height
    6. Need thirty minutes of exercise a day
    7. Not prone to ear infections
  2. Subject B: Golden Retrievers
    1. Athletic
    2. Agile
    3. Good swimmers
    4. Range from gold to cream in color
    5. Range from 60 to 75 pounds and 21-24 inches in height
    6. Need two or more hours of exercise a day
    7. Prone to ear infections
  3. Analysis: Both breeds are excellent choices for active people as they both enjoy going for hikes and runs, but golden retrievers are a better option for those interested in a dog that can accompany them on their marathon training runs.
  4. Link to next paragraph: In addition to temperament and physical characteristics, potential dog owners also need to consider the care each breed requires.
3. Point of comparison 3: Care
  1. Subject A: German Shepherds
    1. Do not need ears cleaned often because they are not prone to ear infections
    2. Need regular bathing and brushing
  2. Subject B: Golden Retrievers
    1. Clean ears
    2. Need grooming once a week
  3. Analysis: Golden retrievers may not be the best choice for those with limited time and funds because their care will take significant time and money.
  4. Link to next paragraph: It may take some time and research, but eventually you will discover if either of these breeds would make a welcome addition to your family.
Concluding Paragraph
1. Synthesis: With their different personalities and needs, German shepherds and golden retrievers are both great dogs that you should consider when you are looking to add a furry friend to your family.
2. Final impression: Consider dog sitting or visiting both of these breeds in your local shelter to figure out if either of these breeds will be a good fit for your family.

The second way you could organize your outline is subject-by-subject, as in this approach:

Subject-by-subject outline

Introductory Paragraph
1. Hook
2. Tone
3. Background
4. Thesis
Body Paragraphs
1. Subject A
  1. Point of comparison 1 (Evidence)
  2. Point of comparison 2 (Evidence)
  3. Point of comparison 3 (Evidence)
  4. Analysis*
  5. Link to next paragraph
2. Subject B
  1. Point of comparison 1 (Evidence)
  2. Point of comparison 2 (Evidence)
  3. Point of comparison 3 (Evidence)
  4. Analysis*
  5. Link to next paragraph
Concluding Paragraph
1. Synthesis
2. Final impression

*Analysis could go after each point of comparison (evidence) in the paragraph, or come after all three as shown above.

Here is an example of the same information about German shepherds and golden retrievers, reorganized to reflect subject-by-subject organization.

German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers

Introductory Paragraph
1. Hook: According to the American Kennel Club, golden retrievers and German shepherds have both been among the top three most popular dog breeds in the United States.
2. Tone: Informal
3. Background: Their popularity stems, in part, from their intelligence and ability to serve and keep company.
4. Thesis: Despite sharing these characteristics, German shepherds and golden retrievers are very different breeds, and potential owners must understand these differences to ensure they choose the breed best suited to their homes.
Body Paragraphs
1. Subject A: German Shepherds
  1. Point of comparison 1: Temperament
    1. Intelligent
    2. Fast
    3. Keen sense of smell
    4. Loyal
    5. Aggressive; fearless
    6. Active
    7. Curious
    8. Over-protective if not socialized properly
    9. Territorial
    10. Do not care for strangers
    11. Defensive
    12. Work without being distracted
  2. Point of comparison 2: Physical characteristics
    1. Fast
    2. Strong
    3. Keen sense of smell
    4. Generally tan with black back and snout; also black, white, sable, liver, and blue varieties
    5. Range from 50-90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches in height
    6. Need thirty minutes of exercise a day
  3. Point of comparison 3: Care
    1. Do not need ears cleaned often because they are not prone to ear infections
    2. Need regular bathing and brushing
  4. Analysis: German shepherds are an excellent choice for people who have the ability to properly socialize their dogs. They are an excellent choice for people who do not have hours to spend playing and walking a dog or the money needed to care for an animal that requires frequent visits to the vet or groomer.
  5. Link to next paragraph: If your lifestyle is not well-suited to care for a German shepherd, it may be better suited to care for a golden retriever.
2. Subject B: Golden Retrievers
  1. Point of comparison 1: Temperament
    1. Intelligent
    2. Loyal
    3. Friendly
    4. Kind
    5. Calm
    6. Eager to please
    7. Patient
    8. Naturally sociable
    9. Willing to learn
    10. Patient with children
    11. Poor guard dogs
    12. Not aggressive to people or other animals
  2. Point of comparison 2: Physical Characteristics
    1. Athletic
    2. Agile
    3. Good swimmers
    4. Range from gold to cream in color
    5. Range from 60 to 75 pounds and 21-24 inches in height
    6. Need two or more hours of exercise a day
    7. Prone to ear infections
  3. Point of comparison 3: Care
    1. Need grooming once a week
    2. Clean ears
  4. Analysis: In many ways, golden retrievers take more care than a German shepherd; however, that should not be your only criteria because their friendliness is infectious and may be best for your family and neighborhood.
  5. Link to next paragraph: It may take some time and research, but eventually you will discover if either of these breeds would make a welcome addition to your family.
Concluding Paragraph
1. Synthesis: With their different personalities and needs, German shepherds and golden retrievers are both great dogs that you should consider when you are looking to add a furry friend to your family.
2. Final impression: Consider dog sitting or visiting both of these breeds in your local shelter to figure out if either of these breeds will be a good fit for your family.

Notice how information is grouped by individual subject, rather than points of comparison, as in the previous outline. Your introduction, thesis, and conclusion may stay the same, but not always.

Note that it is particularly important with a subject-by-subject outline to make sure that you are comparing parallel points. It is very easy to lose track of what you discussed in the first subject when you are in the middle of discussing the second.

+ PRACTICAL APPLICATION+ EXAMPLE

Below are some pairs of possible subjects for a compare and contrast essay.

A) exercising versus walking

B) exercising versus reading

C) walking versus running

Which of these pairings is appropriate for a compare and contrast essay? "Walking" is a form of "exercising," so that is not a good pairing. "Exercising versus reading" is very broad. There are far too many points of comparison and contrast to be made. The last option, "walking versus running," offers the best pairing. There are multiple points of comparison that could be made: equipment needed, health benefits, physical requirements, etc.

Here is what a point-by-point outline might look like for this topic:

Walking and Running for Exercise

Introductory Paragraph
1. Hook: Today's athletes might be surprised that the earliest runners did so while nude. As uncomfortable as that sounds, running is a great way to keep healthy, clothes or no clothes.
2. Tone: Informal
3. Background: To increase health, commit to a regular workout routine.
4. Thesis: Recent studies show that walking also offers similar benefits.
Body Paragraphs
1. Point of comparison 1: Time commitment
  1. Subject A: Walking: at least twice as long as running.
  2. Subject B: Running: tends to be half as long as walking.
  3. Analysis: Walking definitely takes more time to get the same benefits as running.
  4. Link to next paragraph: Even though it may take more time, there are benefits to walking that make it preferable to running.
2. Point of comparison 2: Health Benefits/Risks
  1. Subject A: Walking
    1. Lower incidence of age-related cataracts
    2. Lower incidence of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, and diabetes
  2. Subject B: Running
    1. Runners are thinner than walkers
    2. Produces appetite suppressing hormone
    3. Strains the immune system
    4. Puts more stress on the body
  3. Analysis: Walking can have a positive impact on some long-term health-related issues even though running has more immediate and noticeable benefits.
  4. Link to next paragraph: Walking and running both have their advantages, so maybe the choice should be made on which one you are more likely to do.
3. Point of comparison 3: Effort
  1. Subject A: Walking: Walking faster lengthens life.
  2. Subject B: Running: Walking breaks reduce injury during running.
  3. Analysis: Both require effort, though to get the most out of walking, you must speed up and to run in the safest way, you must slow down.
  4. Link to next paragraph: Since both are beneficial to overall health, which one are you more likely to do?
Concluding Paragraph
1. Synthesis: Many people think that walking won't be as beneficial as running, but in some instances it can actually be the better option.
2. Final impression: Regardless of which one you choose, you should choose one because all health experts agree that regular physical activity makes for healthier living.

Here is that same information, organized as a subject-by-subject outline.

Walking and Running for Exercise

Introductory Paragraph
1. Hook: Today's athletes might be surprised that the earliest runners did so while nude. As uncomfortable as that sounds, running is a great way to keep healthy, clothes or no clothes.
2. Tone: Informal
3. Background: Recent studies show that walking also offers similar benefits.
4. Thesis: Both walking and running are a great way to get in shape; however, one should understand the unique features of each before they choose between a running and walking regimen.
Body Paragraphs
1. Subject A: Walking
  1. Point of comparison 1: Time commitment
    1. At least twice as long as running
  2. Point of comparison 2: Health benefits/risks
    1. Lower incidence of age-related cataracts
    2. Lower incidence of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, and diabetes
  3. Point of comparison 3: Effort
    1. Walking faster lengthens life
  4. Analysis: Walking has a positive impact, especially for people with the time to commit and other health risk factors.
  5. Link: Time is at a premium for most people, so maybe one can get the same benefits but in a shorter amount of time by running.
2. Subject B: Running
  1. Point of comparison 1: Time commitment
    1. Tends to be half as long as walking
  2. Point of comparison 2: Health benefits/risks
    1. Runners are thinner than walkers
    2. Strains the immune system
    3. Produces appetite suppressing hormone
    4. Puts more stress on the body
  3. Point of comparison 3: Effort
    1. Walking breaks reduce injury
  4. Analysis: If the body can take it, running produces great immediate benefits
  5. Link: Even though some people may be attracted by the quick results produced by running, walking may be preferable to many depending on their current health status.
Concluding Paragraph
1. Synthesis: Many people think that walking won't be as beneficial as running, but in some instances it can actually be the better option.
2. Final impression: Regardless of which one you choose, you should choose one because all health experts agree that regular physical activity makes for healthier living.

When you look at both outlines, you can see that they offer the same information, just organized in a different way.

+ YOUR TURN

Below are some pairs of possible subjects for a compare and contrast essay.

A) evergreen trees (trees that stay green all year long) versus deciduous trees (trees that lose their leaves in the fall)

B) evergreen trees versus Fraser firs

C) maple trees versus deciduous trees

Which of the pairings is appropriate for a compare and contrast essay?

Answer

Now, develop your own outlines for a compare and contrast essay. You may use the example subjects above or choose your own two subjects to compare and contrast. Explain why your two subjects will offer good opportunities for comparing and contrasting. Then create both a subject-by-subject outline and a point-by-point outline for your subjects.

What subjects do you choose and why are they appropriate for a compare and contrast essay?

Sample Answer

Point-by-point Outline

Sample Answer

Evergreen and Deciduous Trees

Introductory Paragraph
1. Hook: If you are planting new trees in your yard, your first consideration may be whether to choose an evergreen or a deciduous tree.
2. Tone: Informal
3. Background: Both provide shade and beauty, but they will function differently throughout the year.
4. Thesis: To ensure that you will enjoy your tree at every stage of its long life, consider the strengths of both trees before you make your decision.
Body Paragraphs
1. Point of comparison 1: Usefulness
  1. Subject A: Deciduous trees
    1. Can serve as a "working tree."
    2. Can have wide canopies that provide large areas of shade.
    3. They will not block ground-level views.
  2. Subject B: Evergreen trees
    1. Can also serve as a "working tree."
    2. They provide privacy.
    3. They serve as sound barriers and windbreaks.
  3. Analysis: Deciduous trees may make more environmental sense because their shade cools your house in the summer and the lack of shade allows the sun to warm your house in the winter.
  4. Link to next paragraph: Deciduous trees will also last longer than most evergreens.
2. Point of comparison 2: Durability/rate of growth
  1. Subject A: Deciduous trees will live longer than evergreen trees.
  2. Subject B: Evergreen trees are fast-growing, but will not live as long.
  3. Analysis: If you want mature trees quickly but have limited funds, evergreens may be a better choice because they will grow quickly.
  4. Link to next paragraph: However, before deciding which type of tree to purchase, you also need to consider their appearances.
3. Point of comparison 3: Appearance
  1. Subject A: Deciduous trees
    1. These lose their leaves in the winter.
    2. They often have beautiful seasonal changes in color and form.
    3. They provide more shade in summer.
    4. They provide more light and warmth in winter.
  2. Subject B: Evergreen trees
    1. Green color adds beauty to your yard.
    2. Their cool green contrasts with warm fall colors.
    3. They keep their bright color through winter.
  3. Analysis: Are you more interested in colorful fall foliage? Or do you enjoy retaining a lush green in the winter? The answer to this question will help you narrow down your tree choice.
  4. Link to next paragraph: Now you just have one more criteria to consider.
Concluding Paragraph
1. Synthesis: Before you choose any tree, you need to understand what your needs are. If you need a tree to provide privacy quickly, an evergreen will be your best choice. However, if you want a tree that will shade you, flower, or turn red, orange, or yellow, look for a deciduous tree.
2. Final impression: Remember that this is not necessarily an either-or choice. Depending upon your family's and yard's needs, you may end up planting a combination of deciduous and evergreen trees.

Subject-by-subject Outline

Sample Answer

Evergreen and Deciduous Trees

Introductory Paragraph
1. Hook: If you are planting new trees in your yard, your first consideration may be whether to choose an evergreen or a deciduous tree.
2. Tone: Informal
3. Background: Both provide shade and beauty, but they will function differently throughout the year.
4. Thesis: To ensure that you will enjoy your tree at every stage of its long life, consider the strengths of both trees before you make your decision.
Body Paragraphs
1. Subject A: Evergreen trees
  1. Point of comparison 1: Usefulness
    1. They can serve as "working trees."
    2. They provide privacy.
    3. They can serve as sound barriers.
    4. They can serve as windbreaks.
  2. Point of comparison 2: Durability/rate of growth
    1. They are fast-growing.
    2. They will not live as long as deciduous trees.
  3. Point of comparison 3: Appearance
    1. Their color adds beauty to your yard.
    2. Their cool green contrasts with warm fall colors.
    3. They keep their bright color through winter.
  4. Analysis: Evergreens may be the best option for your yard if you have less money to spend as you can purchase a smaller tree that will reach full-size.
  5. Link: While evergreens have many great uses and grow quickly, deciduous trees may be more appropriate for your needs.
2. Subject B: Deciduous trees
  1. Point of comparison 1: Usefulness
    1. They can also function as "working trees."
    2. Their wide canopies provide large areas of shade.
    3. They will not block ground-level views.
  2. Point of comparison 2: Durability/rate of growth
    1. They live longer than evergreen trees.
  3. Point of comparison 3: Appearance
    1. They lose their leaves in the winter.
    2. You will enjoy their seasonal changes in color and form.
    3. They provide more shade in summer.
    4. They provide more light and warmth in winter.
  4. Analysis: Deciduous trees take much longer to mature and may not be your first choice to fill out a bare landscape. However, they may make more environmental sense because their shade cools your house in the summer and the lack of shade allows the sun to warm your house in the winter.
  5. Link: Don’t forget that your family's and yard's needs should drive your choice in trees.
Concluding Paragraph
1. Synthesis: Before you choose any tree, you need to understand what your needs are. If you need a tree to provide privacy quickly, an evergreen will be your best choice. However, if you want a tree that will shade you, flower, or turn red, orange, or yellow, look for a deciduous tree
2. Final impression: Remember that this is not necessarily an either-or choice. Depending upon your family's and yard's needs, you may end up planting a combination of deciduous and evergreen trees.

+ METACOGNITIVE QUESTIONS