Point by Point Method | Comparison Contrast Essay | English Writing Skills

Summary

Wendy from Worldwide Speak explains the point-by-point method for a comparison-and-contrast essay, contrasting it with the simpler block method. She outlines the structure—introduction with a hook, background, and a thesis that lists three ordered points (similarities, differences, or both); multiple body paragraphs each focusing on one comparison point while discussing both subjects in the same order; and a conclusion that restates the thesis, revisits the points, and offers a final reflection. Using an apples-and-oranges example, Wendy emphasizes consistent ordering, strong transition words to signal comparison or contrast, and clear thesis-to-paragraph alignment to produce a coherent, detailed essay.

Takeaways

• 😀 The point-by-point method for comparison and contrast essays focuses on comparing both subjects in each body paragraph, unlike the block method where each subject is discussed separately in different paragraphs.
• 😀 The structure of a point-by-point comparison essay includes an introduction, multiple body paragraphs (one for each point of comparison), and a conclusion.
• 😀 Each body paragraph in the point-by-point method focuses on a specific point of comparison between the two subjects, e.g., origin, climate, or appearance.
• 😀 The introduction paragraph should have a hook, background information, and a strong thesis statement outlining the main points of comparison and whether you’ll discuss similarities, differences, or both.
• 😀 A thesis statement is crucial in guiding the essay, with the points of comparison clearly indicated and the relationship between the two subjects specified (similarities, differences, or both).
• 😀 In the body paragraphs, it's important to maintain a consistent order when discussing the two subjects. If one subject is mentioned first in the thesis, it should also be mentioned first in each body paragraph.
• 😀 Transition words like 'in contrast' are essential to signal differences between the subjects in the point-by-point method.
• 😀 The conclusion paragraph restates the thesis, summarizes the points of comparison, and includes a final reflection or opinion based on the comparison.
• 😀 When writing a body paragraph, start by stating the point of comparison, then discuss each subject (e.g., first the orange, then the apple) while maintaining the same order throughout the essay.
• 😀 It's important to follow the correct order of points of comparison in each body paragraph to ensure clarity and coherence for the reader.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Wendy’s video from Worldwide Speak?

The video focuses on explaining the point-by-point method for writing a comparison and contrast essay, including its structure and how it differs from the block method.

How does the point-by-point method differ from the block method?

In the block method, each body paragraph discusses only one subject, while in the point-by-point method, each body paragraph compares both subjects based on one specific point of comparison.

What are the main parts of a comparison and contrast essay using the point-by-point method?

The essay includes an introduction paragraph, several body paragraphs (each covering one point of comparison), and a conclusion paragraph.

What should be included in the introduction paragraph?

The introduction should contain a hook to grab attention, background information about the two subjects, and a strong thesis statement that clearly states the points of comparison and whether the essay focuses on similarities, differences, or both.

What are examples of thesis statements for similarities, differences, and both similarities and differences?

For similarities: 'Both oranges and apples are a specific type of food grown in similar places and provide many important nutrients for humans.' For differences: 'Compared to oranges, apples originated in a different area of the world, grow in cooler climates, and differ greatly in appearance.' For both: 'Even though oranges and apples are different in where they’re grown and where they originated, they both are similar in how people use them.'

Why is maintaining order important in the point-by-point method?

Maintaining order ensures clarity and logical flow. The order of points in the thesis must match the order of the body paragraphs, and the subjects must be discussed consistently (e.g., always mentioning oranges before apples).

How should each body paragraph be structured in the point-by-point method?

Each body paragraph should start with a topic sentence introducing the point of comparison, discuss the first subject, then the second subject, and use transition words to highlight similarities or differences.

What are some useful transition words for a comparison and contrast essay?

For similarities, words like 'similarly,' 'likewise,' or 'both' can be used. For differences, words like 'in contrast,' 'unlike,' 'however,' and 'differ' are effective.

What are the main elements of the conclusion paragraph?

The conclusion should restate the thesis, briefly review the points of comparison, and end with an opinion or realization about the two subjects.

What final advice does Wendy give to students writing a point-by-point essay?

She advises students to carefully maintain order, use appropriate transitions, and follow the clear structure to produce an effective and organized essay.

According to Wendy, what makes the point-by-point method potentially more interesting than the block method?

The point-by-point method allows for more detailed analysis and a smoother flow between comparisons, making it more engaging for readers.

Why does Wendy use oranges and apples as her example?

She uses oranges and apples because they are simple and familiar subjects, making it easier for learners to understand the structure and logic of the essay format.