Comparison and Contrast Essay Techniques

Wendy from Worldwide Speak explains the structure of comparison and contrast essays, focusing on the block method. The video is aimed at English language learners beginning to write essays. It covers the block method's structure, including introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Wendy provides examples of thesis statements and discusses writing body paragraphs focusing on similarities, differences, or both. The video concludes with tips on writing a strong conclusion and maintaining consistency in essay structure.

What is the primary purpose of a comparison and contrast essay in academic writing?

• To analyze similarities and differences

• To provide a narrative

• To entertain the reader

• To summarize a topic

Which method is considered easier for beginners when writing a comparison and contrast essay?

• Descriptive method

• Narrative method

• Block method

• Point-by-point method

How many body paragraphs are typically included in the block method?

• One

• Two

• Three

• Four

What is the purpose of a hook in the introduction paragraph?

• To conclude the essay

• To state the thesis

• To grab the reader's attention

• To provide background information

Which word signals a focus on similarities in a thesis statement?

• Different

• Also

• Yet

• Similar

In the block method, what does the first body paragraph focus on when discussing similarities?

• Both subjects

• Subject A only

• Neither subject

• Subject B only

When focusing on differences, what should the second body paragraph do?

• Discuss Subject A only

• Introduce a new subject

• Compare Subject B to Subject A

• Summarize the essay

How does the block method handle similarities and differences in one essay?

• By mixing both in each paragraph

• By focusing on similarities in one paragraph and differences in another

• By focusing only on similarities

• By ignoring differences

What should be included in the conclusion paragraph of a block method essay?

• A restatement of the thesis and main points

• A summary of the introduction

• A detailed analysis of one subject

• A new thesis statement

Why is it important to maintain the order of points in each paragraph?

• To ensure clarity and coherence

• To introduce new topics

• To confuse the reader

• To make the essay longer