Comparative Essay

Name ___________ [1 ½ spaces, 12 pt. type, Times Roman]

Section _________ **** 3-4 pages****

Due Date_________

***One or more sources for each paragraph: use only current news articles for sources***

Creative Title

Three Key Terms: ___________, __________,__________

1] Introductory Paragraph: -Introduce your essay topic accurately

-Include background information ; and explain the counter argument

-Thesis Statement: always in Bold Type [Best situated at the end of the first paragraph]

Clear point of view on the topic [ one complete declarative sentence & never a question]

Revised Thesis Format:

This essay will prove____________ due to___________ resulting in __________.

2] Evidentiary Paragraphs (3-4):

· Topic sentence for each paragraph; one idea per paragraph supported by sourced evidence

· Each paragraph should contain 4-5 sentences

· Each paragraph organized in logical sequence to present a persuasive argument

· Explain ‘significance’ of evidence [i.e. ‘This means’…]

· Explain “How” & “Why”

· Connect paragraphs with a ‘transitional sentence’ at the end of each paragraph, linking your evidence in a logical sequence

3] Concluding Paragraph:

-Briefly summarize supporting evidence & explain the significance and future implications of your findings [i.e. ’The evidence indicates’…] & Offer potential solutions to resolve the issue

-Confirm your thesis statement [restate the significance of your thesis statement]

· Double check your thesis statement to make sure it is complete

General Points:

-Avoid absolutes: ‘always, never, etc.’

-Avoid pronouns to maintain clarity: [i.e. avoid; they, it, these. those, etc.]

-Critically analyze, no need to summarize

****Paraphrase & Cite all Direct Quotes with Footnotes****