When you compare two texts, you can write about them separately (block structure) or alternate between them in each paragraph (integrated structure). The integrated structure usually produces stronger analysis.
Each paragraph compares the texts on one point, such as how they present a character, theme or setting. Use comparative connectives: similarly, likewise, in contrast, whereas, however.
Comment on both similarities and differences, and on the writers' methods as well as their ideas.
Worked example
Which structure is best for comparing two poems?
- Writing about one poem then the other makes links hard to see.
- Alternating in each paragraph keeps the comparison central.
Answer:an integrated structure, alternating between the poems with comparative connectives
Key words
- comparison
- examining similarities and differences
- integrated
- combined together
- comparative connective
- a linking word such as whereas or similarly
Practise this
New questions every time.
Common Core-referenced: RL.8.9