Compare/Contrast (Part 5 of 7)
When comparing/contrasting an author shows how two or more elements are alike and different. When the items are compared, their similarities are explored; when they are contrasted, their differences are highlighted. Some texts only compare and are therefore comparing texts; some texts only contrast and are therefore contrasting texts. Texts which do both are considered compare and contrast.
Signal words:
advantage, although, as opposed to, as well as, but, both, by comparison, compared with/to, conversely, differences, different from, disadvantage, even though, either … or, however, in contrast, in like-manner, instead of, just as, likewise, neither, nevertheless, on the contrary, on the other hand, rather than, same as, similar to, similarly, unlike, some, than, unless
Sample Text Model:
The following sample text model uses the Compare/Contrast Structure.
Sharks and whales are both sea creatures. Both are considered marvellous animals and are well studied by scientists. However, more is known about the ways whales communicate and interact with one another. Sharks have been more difficult to study. Like sharks, some whales come close to land and can be observed by boat. Unlike sharks, whales do not commonly enter waterways and live in rivers. Whales are larger than sharks and often live in groups called pods. Whilst people have been attacked by whales, many more have been injured or killed by sharks. This makes sharks more feared by humans.
View the Graphic Organisers Black Line Masters.
Compare/Contrast structures and the use of graphic organisers are covered in depth in our Balanced Literacy Program workshop.