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Writing – Compare & Contrast Essay

Writing · Level 4 · Worksheet 4 of 5 · CCSS: W.4.2, W.4.2a

Level 4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

1 Pick Two Things to Compare

⚖️ Choose two things from the list (or pick your own!) and brainstorm how they are alike and different.

Topic Pairs Summer vs Winter Books vs Movies Pizza vs Tacos School vs Weekend

I am comparing: and

2 Organize Your Essay

📋 Plan your compare & contrast essay using this structure.

Paragraph	What to Write	My Plan
1. Introduction	Tell reader what you're comparing
2. Similarities	How are they alike? (use "both," "similarly")
3. Differences	How are they different? (use "but," "however")
4. Conclusion	Wrap up — which do you prefer?

3 Write Your Compare & Contrast Essay

✍️ Write your essay! Remember to use compare & contrast signal words.

Signal Words both similarly alike but however unlike on the other hand

4 Self-Assessment

✅ Rate your essay!

Criteria	⭐ (1-3)
I clearly identified what I am comparing.
I described at least 2 similarities.
I described at least 2 differences.
I used signal words (both, but, however, etc.).
I have an introduction and conclusion.

5 SBA Writing Rubric Self-Check

The state test scores your writing in three areas. Check your work from above and rate yourself honestly.

Purpose & Organization (Score 1-4):

☐ I clearly stated my opinion/topic ☐ My ideas are in a logical order ☐ I used transitions between ideas ☐ I have a strong conclusion

My score: / 4

Evidence & Elaboration (Score 1-4):

☐ I gave reasons or evidence ☐ I explained my evidence ☐ I used specific details ☐ I used my own words

My score: / 4

Conventions (Score 0-2):

☐ My spelling is correct ☐ My grammar and punctuation are correct

My score: / 2

What I will fix before turning in my writing: