Comparative Essay Writing Flashcards

Grade 5 · English · Flashcards

Key vocabulary and concepts for writing strong comparative essays.

Flashcards

Comparative Essay: An essay that examines two subjects by exploring their similarities and differences.
Block Method: An organizational structure where all details about Subject A come first, followed by all details about Subject B.
Point-by-Point Method: An organizational structure where each paragraph compares both subjects on one specific feature.
Thesis Statement: The main argument sentence that tells the reader what two things are being compared and what the writer's claim is.
Criteria: The specific categories or features chosen to compare two subjects, such as cost, appearance, or purpose.
Transition Words (Contrast): Words that show differences: however, on the other hand, in contrast, yet, while, although.
Transition Words (Similarity): Words that show likeness: similarly, likewise, in the same way, both, also.
Introduction: The opening paragraph that presents both subjects and ends with the thesis statement.
Body Paragraph: A paragraph that develops one comparison point using evidence and explanation.
Conclusion: The final paragraph that restates the thesis and summarizes what was compared.
Evidence: Facts, examples, or details used to support a comparison point in the essay.
Hook: An interesting opening sentence designed to grab the reader's attention.