English Essentials - Next Level Knowledge - 3 Ways to Structure a Comparative Essay (Stage 6, Years/Grades 11-12)

The video tutorial introduces three comparative essay structures: block, alternating, and integrated methods. It begins with a recap of a previous lesson on speculative fiction and a thesis statement. The block method involves analyzing two texts separately, while the alternating method compares themes across texts. The integrated method combines analysis of both texts within each paragraph for a cohesive argument. Each method is explained with examples from 'Frankenstein' and 'Never Let Me Go', focusing on themes of human ambition, hubris, and the denial of humanity.

What is the main focus of speculative fiction as discussed in the lesson?

• The advancement of technology

• The cruelty of man

• The simplicity of life

• The beauty of nature

Which two novels are used to explore the theme of human cruelty in speculative fiction?

• The Handmaid's Tale and Dune

• 1984 and Brave New World

• Frankenstein and Never Let Me Go

• The Hunger Games and Divergent

What is a potential drawback of using the block method for comparative essays?

• It is too concise

• It can become clunky and disconnected

• It lacks depth

• It is too complex

In the alternating paragraphs method, how is the essay divided?

• By chapter

• By author

• By text

• By theme

What is a benefit of the alternating paragraphs method?

• It reduces the length of the essay

• It simplifies the analysis

• It allows for a deeper exploration of one text

• It helps in making comparative links

What is the recommended number of main ideas for an integrated essay?

• Four

• Two

• One

• Three

Why is the integrated paragraphs method considered the 'gold standard'?

• It is the easiest to write

• It presents a unified argument with elegant links

• It requires less research

• It is the shortest method

What is the third main idea discussed in the integrated paragraphs method?

• The cruelty of war

• The cruelty of technology

• The cruelty of isolation

• The cruelty of ambition

What should you always include at the end of your essay?

• A bibliography

• A conclusion

• An introduction

• A summary of each paragraph

What is the ultimate goal of choosing the right essay structure?

• To avoid writing a conclusion

• To suit the question and your thinking style

• To make the essay longer

• To impress the teacher