GUDANG BACA

     A compare and or contrast paragraph is required if you are asked to examine similarities and or differences. Compare focuses on similarities. Contrast focuses on differences.

Topic sentence : identifies the topic and the intention to compare and or contrast X and Y; comments on the degree of similarity or difference.

Support sentences: describe and compare features of chosen topics.

Concluding sentence: summarises and interprets differences and similarities.

Useful transitional words and phrases
For comparison : similar to, similarly, in the same way, like, equally, again, also, too, each of, just as … so
For contrast : in contrast, on the other hand, different from, whereas, while, unlike, however, but, although, however, conversely, yet, unlike.

In a compare and contrast paragraph, you write about the similarities and differences between two or more people, places, things, or ideas.

Organizing two compare-and-contrast paragraphs is just a mini version of creating a compare-and-contrast essay. This kind of essay examines two or more subjects by comparing their similarities and contrasting their differences. In the same way, compare-contrast paragraphs compare and contrast two things in two separate paragraphs. There are two basic methods for organizing compare-contrast paragraphs: the block format and a format where the writer separates similarities and differences.

Block Format
When using the block format for a two-paragraph comparison, discuss one subject in the first paragraph and the other in the second, as follows:

Paragraph 1: The opening sentence names the two subjects and states that they are very similar, very different or have many important (or interesting) similarities and differences. The remainder of the paragraph describes the features of the first subject without referring to the second subject.

Paragraph 2: The opening sentence must contain a transition showing you are comparing the second subject to the first, such as: "Unlike (or similar to) subject No. 1, subject No. 2..." Discuss all the features of subject No. 2 in relation to subject No. 1 using compare-contrast cue words such as "like," "similar to," "also," "unlike," and "on the other hand," for each comparison. End this paragraph with a personal statement, a prediction or another enlightening conclusion.

Separating Similarities and Differences
When using this format, discuss only the similarities in the first paragraph and only the differences in the next. This format requires careful use of many compare-contrast cue words and is, therefore, more difficult to write well. Create the paragraphs as follows:
Paragraph 1: The opening sentence names the two subjects and states that they are very similar, very different or have many important (or interesting) similarities and differences. Continue discussing similarities only using compare-contrast cue words such as "like," "similar to" and "also," for each comparison.

Paragraph 2: The opening sentence must contain a transition showing that you are pivoting to discussing differences, such as: "Despite all these similarities, (these two subjects) differ in significant ways." Then describe all the differences, using compare-contrast cue words such as "differs," "unlike," and "on the other hand," for each comparison. End the paragraph with a personal statement, a prediction, or another compelling conclusion.

Create a Pre-Writing Chart
In organizing compare-contrast paragraphs, using either of the above methods, students may find it helpful to create a compare-contrast-prewriting chart. To create this chart, students would create a three-column table or chart with the following headers topping each column: "Subject 1," "Features," and "Subject 2." Students then list the subjects and features in the appropriate columns.

The Purpose of Comparison and Contrast in Writing
Comparison in writing discusses elements that are similar, while contrast in writing discusses elements that are different. A compare-and-contrast essay, then, analyzes two subjects by comparing them, contrasting them, or both.
The key to a good compare-and-contrast essay is to choose two or more subjects that connect in a meaningful way. The purpose of conducting the comparison or contrast is not to state the obvious but rather to illuminate subtle differences or unexpected similarities. For example, if you wanted to focus on contrasting two subjects you would not pick apples and oranges; rather, you might choose to compare and contrast two types of oranges or two types of apples to highlight subtle differences. For example, Red Delicious apples are sweet, while Granny Smiths are tart and acidic. Drawing distinctions between elements in a similar category will increase the audience’s understanding of that category, which is the purpose of the compare-and-contrast essay.
Similarly, to focus on comparison, choose two subjects that seem at first to be unrelated. For a comparison essay, you likely would not choose two apples or two oranges because they share so many of the same properties already. Rather, you might try to compare how apples and oranges are quite similar. The more divergent the two subjects initially seem, the more interesting a comparison essay will be.

The Structure of a Comparison and Contrast Essay
The compare-and-contrast essay starts with a thesis that clearly states the two subjects that are to be compared, contrasted, or both and the reason for doing so. The thesis could lean more toward comparing, contrasting, or both. Remember, the point of comparing and contrasting is to provide useful knowledge to the reader. Take the following thesis as an example that leans more toward contrasting.
Thesis statement: Organic vegetables may cost more than those that are conventionally grown, but when put to the test, they are definitely worth every extra penny.

Writing a Comparison and Contrast Essay
First choose whether you want to compare seemingly disparate subjects, contrast seemingly similar subjects, or compare and contrast subjects. Once you have decided on a topic, introduce it with an engaging opening paragraph. Your thesis should come at the end of the introduction, and it should establish the subjects you will compare, contrast, or both as well as state what can be learned from doing so.
The body of the essay can be organized in one of two ways: by subject or by individual points. The organizing strategy that you choose will depend on, as always, your audience and your purpose. You may also consider your particular approach to the subjects as well as the nature of the subjects themselves; some subjects might better lend themselves to one structure or the other. Make sure to use comparison and contrast phrases to cue the reader to the ways in which you are analyzing the relationship between the subjects.
After you finish analyzing the subjects, write a conclusion that summarizes the main points of the essay and reinforces your thesis.

How to Write a Compare and Contrast Essay
Simply put, it is an essay evaluating the similarities and differences between two subjects. These subjects will be in the same category, but different. You might compare and contrast two different kinds of pets, or two novels from the same historical time period.

Maybe you’re thinking that writing an essay about just one subject is hard enough! Where do you even begin with a coherent essay about two topics?

No worries. Here is a step-by-step guide to writing a great compare and contrast essay.

Step 1 - Choose Your Subject

Remember that your two subjects must be different, but still in the same ballpark, to create a meaningful compare-and-contrast essay. For example, if you want to write about two different historical figures, it makes sense to choose two great artists rather than an artist and a politician.
Step 2 - Brainstorm Similarities and Differences

Make two lists: one list of similarities, and another of differences. If you are a visual person, a Venn diagram can facilitate this process. Simply create two overlapping circles, one for each of the topics that you are comparing. Traits that differ are noted separately, within those that they share are written in the overlapping space. This is a helpful visual aid, because it organizes similarities and differences clearly. All you have to do is glance at your Venn diagram to get a sense of the things that you could write about. If you prefer to focus on one subject at a time, jot your lists down on a blank sheet of paper and flip it over to the other side for the other subject. Remember to keep characteristics of the different subjects somewhat parallel.
Step 3 - Hone in on Your Main Argument

A good compare-and-contrast essay goes beyond a simple listing of similarities and differences to make a meaningful statement about a larger topic. When you look at the lists you’ve made, what strikes you as significant? What do these similarities and differences say about the topic? That will be your main argument.
Step 4 - Decide on Your Organizational Structure

There are many possibilities for structuring a compare-and-contrast essay. You could write about one subject in detail, and then switch to the other.
Step 5 - Write an Outline

Craft an outline that fits the structure you have chosen. Traditionally, an essay consists of an introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Consider including four body paragraphs instead to give balance to your two subjects.
Step 6 - Fill in Supporting Evidence

As you begin to write your essay, back up your assertions with evidence from research, reading, or personal experience. If you are comparing and contrasting cats and dogs, use personal anecdotes about friends and their pets to bolster your arguments.
Step 7 - Craft Your Essay with Strong Transitional Words

Transitional words give your essay a nice flow from one statement to the next. When comparing, use words like “both,” “likewise” and “similarly.” Words such as “nonetheless,” “on the other hand,” and “whereas” are ideal for forming a contrast.
Step 8 - Proofread and Revise Carefully

Once you have finished, read your essay several times to check spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Make use of spell check and grammar check tools in your word processing program. If possible, get a friend to cast a fresh pair of eyes on it to find mistakes you might have missed. We often have difficulty reading our own work objectively and can miss silly mistakes.

     An illustration paragraph, or an illustrative paragraph is one written to illustrate a point with examples. It consists of a topic sentence followed by specific examples arranged in some order. Transition phrases such as "for example' or "for instance" and "another illustration is" are often used. Illustrative style is a style which relies on examples and word pictures. Good examples give writing vividness, energy and narrative power in either fiction or non-fiction.

In an illustration paragraph, specific examples are used to clarify and support a general statement.

🔹 Topic sentence makes a general statement.
🔹 Support sentences give one or more specific examples.
🔹 Concluding sentence (usually unnecessary)

The illustration (examples) paragraph is useful when we want to explain or clarify something, such as an object, a person, a concept, or a situation. When we illustrate, we show how something is as we point out. When we illustrate with examples, we give instances that show or prove to the readers so they can see for themselves how something is as we claim it to be.

You will notice, then, that illustration paragraphs often answer questions that ask what, how, in what way—questions that need or ask for explanation, examples, cases, and details to illustrate how something is true.

An illustration essay is a practical exercise before writing your future thesis. People call it as student’s first step to the joy of discovery. This kind of papers encourages them to use fresh ideas when it comes to supportive arguments and to pay more attention to the research process. Illustration essay teaches how to find and assemble relevant materials for writing. It is one of the basic tasks students deal with at college. Let’s figure out some tips that will help you to receive higher grades.

An illustration essay is a kind of informative writing, whose purpose is to demonstrate that particular thing exists and acts in a certain way. An illustration essay is also known as exemplification paper. It means that an author needs to summarize empirical data and include their definition. It is not a discovery of something brand-new, just a summary of experiences by providing vivid examples that clarify the issue. These examples are what makes an illustration essay good.

No focus on sensations or discoveries is required. One has to demonstrate a topic idea through supporting facts so readers can imagine those situations. The explanation of findings with a chain of examples is a must. Use people, situations, experiences that make an issue more related to real life.

How to Write 1 Well Developed Illustration Paragraph

The Illustration paragraph is an excellent start for basic level writers and ESL writers; this type of paragraph is one of the most basic types of paragraphs and easy to follow. Moreover, the illustration paragraph helps writers become more analytical in a fully developed and focused way.

The illustration paragraph allows writers to examine one element from his or her life and explain his/her likes or dislikes regarding this element by using clear and specific examples. This element can be anything, such as a specific place, a specific thing, a person, a subject, a job, an animal, etc. This type of paragraph allows writers to understand his or her feelings about his/her written subject. The following format and two examples of an illustration paragraph provide a helpful tool for writers to follow. Step 1 provides general advice about planning your paragraph.

Step 2 contains a step by step format/recipe of an illustration paragraph. Step 3 and 4 are two student samples that compliment the format in step 2.

Be sure to take time and think about the one element that you want to write about. Take some time to think of three things to tell why you like or dislike this element. Furthermore, be sure to think of specific examples that will support your three reasons.

Follow this format:

A standard format/recipe of an illustration paragraph:

a). Write 1 clear topic sentence that mentions the element that you are going to write about, and be sure to include 3 key words or phrases that explain why you like or dislike the element that you are writing about.

b). Write 1 sentence that explains your first key word from your topic sentence.

c). Write 1-2 sentences that provide a clear and specific example that supports the explanation of you first key word.

d). Using a transitional phrase, write 1 sentence that explains your second key word.

e). Write 1-2 sentences of a clear and specific example that supports your explanation of your second key word.

f) Using another transitional phrase, write 1 sentence that explains your third key word from your topic sentence.

g) Write 1-2 more sentences that contain a supportive clear and specific example for your third key word.

h) Write 1 concluding sentence that will seal off your entire paragraph.

Descriptive Paragraph and How to Write a Descriptive Paragraph

A descriptive paragraph is a collection of multiple sentences to convey a distinct message of a single person, place or thing. It begins with a descriptive sentence that clearly states the topic that will be rolled out in the following sentences. A well-written descriptive paragraph pulls in all five senses to engage the reader. The use of smell, sight, touch, sound and taste in expressive language captivates the reader on many levels. If done well, your short piece of descriptive writing will have the opportunity to leave a strong impression on the reader.

Types of Descriptive Paragraphs
A short piece of descriptive writing can go a few ways, depending on the writer’s intentions. There are mainly two types to consider when writing a descriptive essay. An objective description typically relies on neutral words that don’t arouse strong emotions in the reader. A subjective description reels the reader into the subject by evoking emotions through clear, concise copy with strong descriptions.

Writing a descriptive paragraph requires you to use observation, creativity and revision.

Observation is key to composing a descriptive paragraph. Spend time studying your subject. Make notes about what you see, smell, hear, taste or feel. Try to get as specific as you can.

As you begin writing, try to use specific language rather than general terms. For example, instead of writing “furniture,” write “rocking chair” or “bunk bed.” Avoid abstract words that are difficult for a reader to picture, such as “nice,” “beautiful” or “love.” Specific words will help the reader see your object in a much more powerful way.

One of the best ways to write a strong descriptive paragraph is to include sensory details. Involve all the senses in your paragraph -- not just sight, but also sounds, smells, tastes and touch. For example, if you were describing your family’s lakeside cabin, you could write about the sound of the lapping waves, the scent of pine trees, the reflection of the sun on the water or the feel of the worn porch steps beneath your bare feet. Avoid general descriptions and aim for specific, unique details.

Revision is a key step in writing a descriptive paragraph. Review your writing, looking for ways to turn a general word or phrase into something more specific. Check to make sure you included all five senses in your description if possible. Test your description by reading your paragraph to a friend or relative without telling them what you’re describing. If they’re confused or can’t tell what your subject is, you may need to include more details or be more specific.

A good descriptive paragraph is like a window into another world. Through the use of careful examples or details, an author can conjure a scene that vividly describes a person, place, or thing. The best descriptive writing appeals to multiple senses at once―smell, sight, taste, touch, and hearing―and is found in both fiction and nonfiction. After identifying that subject in a clear topic sentence, they proceed to describe it in detail while explaining its personal significance. If you want to immerse a reader in an essay or story, there’s no better way to do it than with a crisp, vivid descriptive paragraph. These paragraphs are best when you let your creativity take control, experimenting with structure and content and using unusual, striking phrases to hook your reader’s attention. Whether you’re describing a person, place, or thing, your paragraph should make your reader feel like they’re right there with you or your characters, experiencing the moment firsthand.

👥 Describing a Person
Step 1 : Start your paragraph with a general topic sentence that introduces the person. A succinct introduction sentence at the start of your paragraph will help catch the reader’s attention and shift their focus to the person you’re about to describe. Keep this first sentence clear and concise, focusing on one aspect of their appearance so you don’t overwhelm your reader with too much description right away. You can also split your topic sentence into 2 sentences for clarity and flow.
Step 2 : Focus on the most striking part of their appearance first. To hook your readers in even more, go straight from your general introduction to the most interesting or unusual part of the person’s appearance. Think of this as the thing that you notice first, or that makes the biggest impression on you when you first see it. If you’re writing a more creative piece, like a narrative, you can also use this as your introductory sentence.
Step 3 : Focus on physical details that hint at the person’s personality. By carefully choosing your descriptive words, your paragraph can paint a vivid picture of the person while giving the reader a sense of who they really are. Search for strong, resonant words that get across the point you want to make and create a tone that fits with the person.
Step 4 : Fill in any last details to give a good general picture. Make sure that your reader has a good sense for the most important parts of this person’s appearance. You want to at least touch on key aspects of their body and clothing, as well as their face, since these are the parts of the person that the reader will be most interested in. Continue to use strong, descriptive words and challenge yourself to describe them in unique ways.
Step 5 : Use figurative language and strong adjectives throughout your paragraph. Metaphors, similes, and striking, descriptive language will help you paint a picture of the person without losing the reader’s interest. You want to evoke the spirit and appearance of the person without getting too wordy, and strong, well-chosen language and phrases are the best way to do that. Challenge yourself to include a turn of phrase you’ve never heard before, or use a word in a new way to bring out new dimensions of your character or person.
Step 6 : End the paragraph with a resonant description or conclusion. The end of your paragraph is the part that will stick in your reader’s mind. Try to make your last sentence the most interesting one, either with an unexpected final description or by summarizing the material in a unique, surprising way.

🍀 Writing about an Object
Step 1 : Give an idea of the size and general shape of the object. The best way to set up a paragraph describing an object is to immediately give the reader a sense of the object’s position and size. How much space does it take up? Can it fit in the palm of your hand, or does it loom over you? Has it sat so long in one place that it’s gathered dust, or is it constantly in motion? Feel free to split your topic sentence into 2 sentences for clarity and flow.
Step 2 : Describe its sensory details, like color, texture, or taste. Strong sensory details can help your reader relate to an object they’ve never seen before, or cast new light on something familiar. These succinct descriptions, relating to the reader’s sense of touch, smell, taste, or sight, will make the object come alive. Talk about how heavy it is, whether it’s hot or cold, how strong it is, its smell, or even its taste. Get creative!
Step 3 : Talk about what it’s used for to give a sense of its purpose. How do you use this object—or do you not use it at all? Why, or why not? Showing the reader the object’s purpose through strong, descriptive adjectives can help them visualize it more strongly, or even imagine what it would be like to use it themselves.
Step 4 : End by telling or showing how the object is significant, depending on your tone. If you’re asking your reader to read a whole paragraph just about an object, you want them to know why it’s so important. You can do this by telling the reader directly, if your tone is more concise or succinct. For a more subtle option, try showing them its significance by including relevant, telling details about the object or the way someone treats it.

🛤️ Writing a Descriptive Paragraph About a Place
Step 1 : Start by describing the first thing that strikes you about the place. What’s the thing that you notice first when you walk into this house, into this office, or down that street? Is it a certain building, a sign, a window, or even a group of people? Whatever it is that makes this place interesting to you—whether real or made-up—that’s probably the thing that’ll hook your readers, too. Consider focusing on an attribute that you’ll be specifically elaborating on later in the paragraph. Feel free to split your topic sentence into multiple sentences for clarity and flow.
Step 2 : Highlight small place details to make your description interesting. Almost everyone has seen a bedroom before, or gone into a classroom or a grocery store. Focusing on specific aspects that make the room, classroom, or grocery store unique and different is what will hook your readers and help them visualize this place.
Step 3 : Use surprising, exotic language to make the place come to life. Even the most seemingly boring of locations can become vivid and fascinating when paired with strong language. Look for words that capture the spirit of the place, whether it’s a strange old house or a teenage boy’s bedroom. Try descriptive words you normally wouldn’t use and see how they work in your paragraph—you might be surprised by the results.
Step 4 : Add sensory details to appeal to your sense of scent, touch, and sound. Make your readers feel exactly what it’s like to be in this place, from the wind on their face to the sound of dogs barking or cars rushing past. Can they smell anything? What are they looking at? What do they hear?
Step 5 : Write about how you or your character react to the place. Huge chunks of place description can get a little boring for even the most dedicated reader. To keep their attention, add a little action into the mix. Placing a person in your location, even if it’s just a general “you,” can invite the reader to step into their shoes and actually interact with the place, and can also create an interesting, unique tone.
Step 6 : Include only the most important details so you don’t bog your reader down. Keep your place description paragraph to 3-4 sentences of just the most important aspects. Don’t overload your reader with things they don’t need to know! Include only the details that give them the sharpest picture of the place, contribute to the tone of your overall piece, or end up being important later in your story or essay.

Process Paragraph and How to Write a Process Paragraph.

A process paragraph is a series of steps that explain how something happens or how to make something. It can explain anything from the way to enrich vocabulary to overcoming insomnia to the procedure of operating a machine. It may also give tips for improving pronunciation or for answering a telephone call. Because such explanations must be clear, the process paragraph must be written in chronological order, and it must include a topic sentence that clearly states the paragraph’s purpose. It must also include transition words and phrases such as “first,” “next,” “finally,” that connect each of the steps.

There are two kinds of process paragraphs: directional and informational. A directional process paragraph explains the directions to perform a task. It provides the reader a set of instructions or a step-by-step guidance.

🍁 How to Write a Process Paragraph

1) Selecting An Idea
When you tell someone how to do something in chronological order or in logical steps, you are telling someone how to complete a process. Writing the process can be completed in one well developed paragraph. This article will give you several process paragraph examples to help you be a better process writer.

2) Run Through of the Steps
The three main steps in writing a process paragraph are as follows: write a topic sentence, write the body that includes the steps to complete the process, and write a conclusion. The process paragraph should be six or more sentences.
Step 1) Write a Solid Topic Sentence The topic sentence should be first and tell what you will be explaining or what directions you will give. It should tell your topic, tell the process that will be explained in the paragraph and make a point.
Step 2) Body or Detail Sentences The body of the process paragraph is all about the steps. They are generally given in time order. Before writing the body of the paragraph, it is helpful to make a numbered list of all the steps that need to be followed. Then write the body. Make sure to use transitional words for good flow of ideas.
Step 3) Conclusion End the paragraph with a concluding sentence. It should restate the topic and wrap up the paragraph. Once you have written your first draft, make sure to check that the whole paragraph flows smoothly and check for any grammar mistakes.