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Compare and Contrast Facts & Worksheets

Compare and Contrast, a writing style that points out the differences or similarities between two or more objects.

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Compare and Contrast is a style of writing that points out the similarities (comparing) and differences (contrasting) of two or more objects. A compare and contrast structure can be expressed in an essay using transition signals or in a non-linear text using graphic organizers.

See the fact file below for more information on Compare and Contrast, or you can download our 29-page Compare and Contrast worksheet pack to utilize within the classroom or home environment.

Key Facts & Information

COMPARE AND CONTRAST IN WRITING

  • Compare and contrast structure in writing deals with identifying and showing the similarities and differences of two or more objects that are connected. 
  • The text structure can either show the similarities of the objects compared or the differences or both.
  • Comparing and contrasting can be done in linear and non-linear texts by using different writing devices.
  • Comparing and contrasting can be the structure of an essay that can be written more effectively with the use of transition signals.
  • Comparing and contrasting concepts can also be shown in non-linear texts through the use of graphic organizers.
  • Compare and contrast style in writing is useful, especially if you are dealing with two topics and intend to show their relationship with each other.
  • Examining their similarities and differences is one way of looking at how they connect to each other. 
  • It also helps understand each concept more since comparing and contrasting focuses on the aspects that highlight its distinct qualities.
  • These qualities can be the concept’s features, visible or tangible characteristics, functions, and strengths and weaknesses. 
  • If these qualities are juxtaposed with the qualities of other concepts or objects, understanding each one will be easier.

COMPARE AND CONTRAST IN A PARAGRAPH

  • The paragraph below examines the apple and the orange.

         Apples and oranges are some of the popular fruits because they are accessible and easy to eat. But despite the fact that they are both easy to recognize, apples and oranges offer different things. First, apples can be red or green, whereas oranges are orange, hence the name. Apples are crunchy in general and have more fiber. On the other hand, oranges are pulpy while offering more vitamin C. Furthermore, both fruits can be turned into a refreshing and delicious juice and are healthy options.

  • The given paragraph shows two objects introduced and described by looking at their similarities and differences. It is  clear that these objects are closely related to each other. However, it is also evident that each object has characteristics that distinguish it from the other one described. Describing each of them simultaneously also highlights the distinct characteristics, which makes the object easier to recognize.

COMPARE AND CONTRAST TRANSITION SIGNALS

  • Comparing and contrasting two or more objects, especially in a paragraph, may be confusing to readers simply because you are doing two descriptions or elaborations in one writing. First, you are giving the similarities by comparing, and second, you are giving the differences by contrasting.
  • However, this is possible and can be made understandable using helping words, so readers and writers will not be confused. These words are called transition signals and are useful in comparing and contrasting and in other specific structures of writing. 
  • Here are the transition signals used when comparing:
    • both
    • by the same token
    • in like manner
    • in similar fashion
    • in the same way
    • equally
    • just as
    • likewise
    • similarly
  • Examples:
    • Both songs inspire someone who is going through something difficult.
    • An air fryer cooks a hotdog in the same way a microwave oven cooks it.
    • Your instructions and her instructions are equally confusing.
  • Contrasting can also be clearer with the use of the following transition signals:
    • and yet
    • but
    • conversely
    • however
    • in contrast
    • on the contrary
    • on the other hand
    • otherwise
    • still
    • though
    • unlike
    • yet
  • Examples:
    • A video blog is primarily a video expressing views and experiences, which are uploaded to a platform. On the other hand, a podcast is primarily an audio recording that may also discuss views and experiences.
    • An apple has smooth skin, unlike an orange which has knobby skin. 
    • Though Jayson believes in filial piety, Chris is very modern.
  • Although there are transition signals exclusive for comparing and contrasting two or more objects, there are also transition signals that deal with both.

Compare and Contrast Worksheets

This fantastic bundle includes everything you need to know about Compare and Contrast across 29 in-depth pages. These ready-to-use worksheets are perfect for teaching kids about Compare and Contrast, a writing style that points out the differences or similarities between two or more objects.

Complete List of Included Worksheets

Below is a list of all the worksheets included in this document.

  • Compare and Contrast Facts
  • Comparing or Contrasting
  • Venn Diagram
  • Compare and Contrast Chart
  • Transition Signals
  • Compare, Contrast, and Draw
  • Compare, Contrast, and Write
  • Connected Objects
  • Compare, Contrast, and Choose
  • Comparing and Contrasting Me
  • Compare, Contrast, and Reflect

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Link will appear as Compare and Contrast Facts & Worksheets: https://kidskonnect.com - KidsKonnect, December 22, 2022

Use With Any Curriculum

These worksheets have been specifically designed for use with any international curriculum. You can use these worksheets as-is, or edit them using Google Slides to make them more specific to your own student ability levels and curriculum standards.

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