Thursday

Class Work
1. Share your comparison/contrast chart at your table.
Questions?
Concerns?
2. Let's talk transitions...
http://www.studygs.net/wrtstr6.htm

Here's a game!
http://www.studygs.net/trans/wrtstr6a.htm

Here is a nice, tidy list!
http://www.smart-words.org/transition-words.html

And, a terrific chart!
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/transitions.htm

Without the careful use of transitions, a comparison/contrast essay ends up sounding like a long list. You want your writing to be conversational.

3. Let's put some of the transitions into action! Try the following practice.
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/quizzes/combining_quiz1.htm

4. What about voice? Does your paper lack personality? If so, consider this.
http://www.write101.com/lethamfind.htm

Let's practice a bit.
Exercise:  Go outside. Find something unfamiliar, something growing, something tossed away, something strange or wonderful! Bring it back to class. If it is not something you can carry, take a picture. Bring that.

Now, describe the object in such a way that the reader can tell that you love it!

Next, write a new description of the same object, only this time show that you hate the object!

Finally, write one more description of the same object and have a so-what attitude.

Post all three descriptions in MyCompLab.

5. How will you introduce your subjects?  How will you conclude?

6. Consider adding:

• Research: This might include statistics and numbers. For example, if you are comparing two vacation options, share the cost of each! Money talks.
• A famous quotation (Expert)
• A quotation from a classmate or friend (Ordinary person)
• Personal stories

7. Make it interesting.

Homework: Write the draft. Post it in MyCompLab by Tuesday, March 26th. Also, bring a paper copy to class to use for a peer editing activity. If you prefer, you may use an electronic copy. Just be sure you can access it.