Welcome to Exploring Perspectives: Compare and Contrast Essay Writing – an engaging class designed for middle school students eager to enhance their writing skills! Over the course of four weeks, learners meet twice a week for a dynamic and engaging exploration of the art of crafting compelling compare and contrast essays. Through the lens of comparison and contrast, we'll explore diverse perspectives, and sharpen our analytical skills.

In this class, we will embark on a creative journey to unravel the intricacies of essay writing, focusing on the enriching process of drawing comparisons and contrasts. Through interactive sessions filled with lively discussions, collaborative activities, and hands-on exercises, students will not only grasp the fundamentals of essay structure, but also cultivate the critical thinking skills essential for effective comparison.

From selecting captivating topics to formulating powerful thesis statements, structuring well-organized essays, and refining writing through revision, each class is designed to foster an environment where students feel inspired to express their thoughts with confidence. 

Week 1: Introduction to Compare and Contrast Writing
        Day 1: Introduction to the concept of compare and contrast. Overview of key terms and structures used in essay writing. Analyzing sample essays to identify elements of effective writing.
        Day 2: Selecting Topics and Forming Thesis Statements- Discussion on selecting suitable subjects for comparison. Group brainstorming activities to generate ideas. Guided exercises to develop strong thesis statements.

Week 2: Structuring the Essay
        Day 1: Explanation of essay structure: introduction, body, and conclusion. Collaborative outlining activities to organize ideas. Discussion on creating a smooth flow between paragraphs.
        Day 2: Analyzing effective introductions and conclusions. Group and individual activities to practice writing captivating introductions and memorable conclusions. Drafting our introduction and conclusion paragraphs.

Week 3: Developing Analytical Skills
        Day 1: Analyzing Similarities and Differences- In-depth exploration of identifying similarities and differences. Guided exercises to practice identifying key elements for comparison. Drafting our body paragraphs.
        Day 2: Incorporating Evidence and Examples- Strategies for integrating evidence and examples to support arguments. Interactive exercises to strengthen evidence-based writing. Adding evidence and examples to our essays.

Week 4: Refining Writing and Presentation
        Day 1: Revision and Editing- Group discussion on the importance of revision. Hands-on revision exercises to improve clarity and coherence. Revising and editing our essays.
        Day 2: Adding diagrams and visuals to our essays. Presenting our final compare and contrast essays.