Same Writing › Essays › Compare and contrast essays
How do kids write a compare and contrast essay?
Compare means how two things are alike; contrast means how they're different. Kids usually start with a Venn diagram: two overlapping circles with what's only true of each on the sides and what they share in the middle. Then they write it up in one of two ways: block or point-by-point.
- Outer parts: true of only one.
- The overlap: true of both.
- Block: all about A, then all about B. Point-by-point: one feature at a time.
Why schools teach it
Comparing is a way of thinking, not just a format
Kids compare characters, settings and events (RL.5.3) and compare how texts are structured (RI.5.5). In writing, they group related information (W.5.2). The Venn diagram sorts the ideas before any sentences get written.
The two essay shapes give kids a choice: block is easier to plan, point-by-point makes the comparisons clearer.
At the kitchen table
What to say, and what to skip
Say this
What's true of both? That goes in the middle.
CompareWhat's true of only one?
ContrastWill you write about one at a time, or one feature at a time?
Block or point-by-pointWhich words show alike or different?
both, similarly, however, while
Skip this
- Two separate reports with no connection.Each paragraph should link the two.
- Only differences.Most assignments want both alike and different.
- Comparing things that aren't the same kind.Compare features that match up: skin to skin, legs to legs.
See it in action
Frogs and toads, point by point
Alike
Frogs and toads are both amphibians that lay eggs and eat insects.Different: skin
Frogs have smooth, wet skin, while toads have bumpy, dry skin.Different: legs
Frogs have long legs for jumping. However, toads have short legs for hopping.
Compare words: both, also, similarly, like. Contrast words: but, however, while, unlike, on the other hand.
Free practice sheet
Make a compare and contrast sheet
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Parents also ask
What's the block method?
Write everything about the first thing, then everything about the second, then a paragraph on how they compare.
What's point-by-point?
Each paragraph covers one feature, like skin or legs, for both things.
Which is better?
Point-by-point usually shows the comparison more clearly. Block is easier for younger writers.
Do they always use a Venn diagram?
Often. Some classes use a T-chart or a double-bubble map instead.