Writing a comparative-style essay: texts and films ("book pairs")

A few points:

1. Do a checklist

Do a “checklist” of the key ideas, views, values and intentions of each author. Think about the similarities and differences.

2. Topic sentences

Make sure the topic sentences directly, and clearly, answer the topic

Write a list of simple sentences that are clear and relevant.. Make sure you break down the key (big picture concepts) points::
Example: Prompt: Both The Dressmaker and The Crucible condemn narrow-minded societies. To what extent to you agree?

The authors condemn the narrow-minded societies by showing the divisive impact of vicious accusations and prejudice,

Miller criticises the theocratic leaders because they have a (narrow-minded) rigid and authoritarian view of religion.

3. Your evidence

Try to avoid long paragraphs with chunks of evidence. Keep breaking down the chunks and key concepts. Focus on each author’s “how” techniques. Hone in on narrative and film devices. Pay particular attention to similarities and differences so that you can include some clever cross-references.

4. Your essay should show a progression of ideas.

Aim for three sections in your essay and try to find a different focus for each section.

Embed world of the text throughout, but with a sharper emphasis in Paragraph 1 so as to establish a context. You must find a progression that enables you to bring out key ideas and depth, without having to over-explain and give a lot of back story.

De-chunk your evidence; your paragraphs need to be concise and have a sharp focus.

5. Grammar and expression

Avoid generalisations. Be analytically precise. (Generalisations show a simplistic reading of a text; rather you need to show that you can relate to the text on a deeper level, ie. don’t make rash statements that are not quite true or that cannot be substantiated. Your comment may be true of one character at a particular moment in the text, but it does not reflect changes in character or a different perspective/comment.