The compare/contrast essay is easy and rewarding to teach because:
- You can convince students there is a reason for learning it.
- You can teach it effectively in a few steps.
- You can see students' critical thinking skills improve as they learn to write the essay.
- Once mastered, students feel proud of their ability to systematically compare and contrast two subjects.
In this feature you will find:
- Step by step instructions for teaching the compare/contrast essay.
- Two different types of compare/contrast charts for planning the essay. (Two student handouts by your guide.)
- Organizing the compare/contrast essay. (A student handout by your guide.)
- Organizing compare/contrast paragraphs. (A student handout by your guide.)
- A link to a compare/contrast cue word list.
- A link to editing/proofreading tips.
- A proofreading guide. (A student handout by your guide.)
- A compare/contrast rubric for teacher and peer evaluations. (A student handout by your guide.)
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Writing Across the Curriculum Part II - Writing Prompts
Excellent prompts from most curriculum areas to help integrate writing into the classroom.
Written by Diane Walker
Updated by Melissa Kelly
