Contrast Paragraphs A contrast paragraph discusses the differences between two things.

Here is an example of such a paragraph organized by subtopic. Notice the contrastive expressions in bold letters: (topic sentence) Even though Arizona and Rhode Island are both states of the U.S., they are strikingly different in many ways. For example, the physical size(primary support) of each state is different. Arizona is large, having an area of 114,000 square miles, whereas Rhode Island is only about a tenth the size, having an area of only 1,214 square miles. Another difference is in the size of the population of each state. Arizona has about four million people living in it, but Rhode Island has less than one million. The two states also differ in the kinds of natural environments that each has. For example, Arizona is a very dry state, consisting of large desert areas that do not receive much rainfall every year. However, Rhode Island is located in a temperate zone and receives an average of 44 inches of rain per year. In addition, while Arizona is a landlocked state and thus has (EMPHASIZE) no seashore, Rhode Island lies on the Atlantic Ocean and does have a significant coastline. PALABRAS NE NEGRO MUESTRAN CONTRAST (DISTINTIVE in a conclusion we can draw the conclusion that LUGARESare remarkably distinctive )

A contrast paragraph labels the differences between two persons, places, or things. Once all of the iformation for the paragraph is obtained one must organize it in one of these two ways: Option One: First present all of the points of one subject, and then contrast the points with all of the information about the other subject. This is a good way to organize the information of a short paragraph because the reader can readily recall the first points that are stated. Option Two: Make a point about the first subject and then contrast it with a point from the other subject, alternating between points. This is a good option for longer paragraphs because the reader does not have to search for the contrasted point. Transition Expressions for Contrast *although, whereas, but, however, conversely, on the other hand, in contrast, while, yet, unlike

Here are some examples of contrast paragraphs: The Alcoholic Verses the Nonalcoholic Alcoholism is a disease that the non-alcoholic has a hard time understanding, and the two lifestyles are quite different. The non-alcoholic has a lifestyle that involves family and friends. He enjoys going to family functions and interacting with his loved ones. In contrast, the alcoholic tries to avoid family functions unless alcohol is offered. Even then, the alcoholic is consumed with drinking rather than interacting with loved ones. If the non-alcoholic is lonely, he tends to seek out a family member or friend to talk to. He will find ways to fill the void of loneliness. However, when the alcoholic feels lonely, sad or angry, he turns to the alcohol to fulfill that void so he does not have to deal with his feelings. Disagreements with a non-alcoholic are often handled quite differently than with an alcoholic. As an example, a non-alcoholic may often walk away from an argument opting for a time to come back when both parties have had time to cool down. Because the disease of alcoholism has a detrimental effect on the judgment of the alcoholic, he may simply lash out relentlessly, not realizing his tactlessness and the hurt he is causing. Goals can be very different for the afflicted person. An unaffected person will set goals to ensure the basic necessities of life, whereas an alcoholic will orientate his goals to achieve a result that satisfies his needs for alcohol. To a non-alcoholic, family rates number one in his life. To the alcoholic, alcohol is number one in his life. The only conclusion that can be drawn is that alcohol is the single factor that consumes the life of an alcoholic. Singers and Sisters Jessica Simpson and Ashley Simpson are similar in the sense that they are both famous singers. However, they are quite different in many ways. Jessica was always sure about what she wanted to do with her life and worked very hard for it whereas Ashley enjoyed what life had to offer her at the moment. Jessica was in voice lessons and started to sing Gospel music during her high school career. On the other hand, Ashley took dance classes and learned how to perform to Hip-hop music. Jessica is more well-known as the air head sister. For example, they both did a breath mint commercial together, and it poked fun of Jessica s blond moments by having point them out. Jessica is more girly of the sisters. She loves to wear dresses and high-heeled shoes, and has the blond bombshell look, unlike Ashley who has more of a punk style. Jessica s music has more of a classical pop tone, while Ashley s music has more of a pop-rock ring to it. Both of these girls are hard workers and both are very successful singers although they are very extraordinary in their own ways. Tampa vs. Great Falls Although Tampa and Great Falls are both American cities, there are differences in almost every aspect of living. The city of Tampa is in the southeastern United States. The weather in that part of the country is hot and humid almost all the time, so residents and tourists can enjoy the powdery white Gulf beaches year-round. There are also many theme parks and museums to experience. Tampa has great restaurants almost beyond counting. The restaurants range from five-star restaurants to walk-up counters. On the down side, there are aggressive panhandlers at every intersection. The traffic is a nightmare. There are many dangerous neighborhoods. The weather is also something to contend with; there are severe storms, tornados, floods, and hurricanes. There is also frequent and unexpected rudeness in strangers. In contrast, the city of Great Falls is in the northwestern United States. There are almost no aggressive panhandlers in Great Falls; they are certainly not at every intersection. There is little traffic in the city. The neighborhoods are generally

safe, and almost everyone you meet is friendly and courteous. On the flip side, there are just a couple of good restaurants. There is no variety in the genre of restaurants. There is not much to offer locally in the way of theme parks or museums. However, the weather in Great Falls is generally agreeable. The summers are hot, dry, and windy. The winters are cold, snowy, and windy. Because of the variety in seasonal weather, there are many different types of outdoor activities to enjoy year-round. There is hiking, biking, swimming, and camping in the summer; in the winter there is skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing. Both cities have much to offer in different ways. I believe that Tampa is a great place to visit on vacation, but Great Falls is a better place to live and raise a family.