Common Frames of Reference
* Chronological: Comparing and contrasting the development of two ideas, concepts, or events over time.
* Thematic: Focusing on specific themes or aspects of your subjects, like their historical significance, cultural impact, or scientific implications.
* Similarities and Differences: You could start with the similarities between your subjects, then transition to their differences, or vice versa.
* Advantages and Disadvantages: This frame of reference is useful when comparing two options, solutions, or approaches.
* Personal Experience: You can use your own personal experiences or observations to provide a frame of reference for your comparison.
* Specific Criteria: You can use a set of predefined criteria to compare and contrast your subjects, such as cost, effectiveness, or accessibility.
Examples:
* Comparing the French and American Revolutions:
* Frame of reference: Chronological order, focusing on the causes, events, and outcomes of each revolution.
* Comparing the works of Shakespeare and Marlowe:
* Frame of reference: Thematic, examining the recurring themes of love, death, and power in their plays.
* Comparing two different types of cancer treatments:
* Frame of reference: Advantages and Disadvantages, analyzing the pros and cons of each treatment option.
Tips for Choosing a Frame of Reference:
* Consider your audience: What kind of information will be most relevant and interesting to them?
* Think about your purpose: What are you trying to achieve with your paper?
* Choose a frame of reference that will help you structure your argument logically and effectively.
By establishing a clear frame of reference, you can ensure that your comparison and contrast paper is well-organized, insightful, and engaging.