Comparative Essay Writing Strategies

The video tutorial explains the differences between comparative essays and text responses, emphasizing the need for a unique strategy to stand out. It introduces the convergent and divergent strategy, which helps in-depth analysis by focusing on similarities and differences without overusing common phrases. The tutorial provides examples and advanced techniques to enhance essay writing skills, aiming to improve students' marks.

What is a common misconception about comparative essays?

• They are just two text responses combined.

• They focus only on differences.

• They are easier than text responses.

• They require no evidence.

What is the main challenge when writing a comparative essay?

• Using complex vocabulary.

• Writing a long essay.

• Finding unique examples.

• Avoiding grammatical errors.

What is the purpose of the Convergent and Divergent Strategy?

• To simplify essay writing.

• To help students stand out with unique comparisons.

• To make essays longer.

• To reduce the number of examples needed.

What does the convergent part of the strategy focus on?

• Identifying similarities without equating examples.

• Using more examples.

• Identifying differences.

• Equating examples.

What does the divergent part of the strategy emphasize?

• Finding more similarities.

• Developing differences and advanced comparison techniques.

• Using simple language.

• Writing shorter essays.

How does the strategy help in essay writing?

• By focusing only on one text.

• By allowing in-depth analysis with fewer examples.

• By providing a template for all essays.

• By reducing the need for analysis.

What is the benefit of using unique comparison methods?

• They help essays stand out.

• They simplify the writing process.

• They make essays longer.

• They reduce the need for evidence.