ENG 101 Week 7 Discussion: Compare and Contrast

Step-By-Step Guide ENG 101 Week 7 Discussion: Compare and Contrast

Recap

Previously, we discussed how to edit and review the Narrative Essay draft. We also revised the template and formatting of our Narrative Essay and made it perfect according to the ENG 101 Week 6 Rubric.

Introduction to ENG 101 Week 7 Discussion

This How-To Guide is designed to assist you in preparing and writing a compare-and-contrast essay on the topic you will choose. The ENG 101 Week 7 Discussion: Compare and Contrast involves prewriting techniques, drafting your essay based on a structured approach, and interacting with classmates by providing critical feedback on their drafts.

For the Week 7 Discussion, I am choosing “Being Rich vs. Being Famous.”

Please choose from one of the following topics on which to base your prewriting and final paper.

Choosing the Topic

To start the ENG 101 Week 7 Discussion: Compare and Contrast, we will choose a topic from the given list. I have selected “Being Rich vs. Being Famous.”

• Understanding the Topic: Recognize that your topic has distinct characteristics and impacts on life. Consider how these conditions can both differ and overlap.
• Relevance and Interest: Choose the angle that you find most interesting or relevant. This will make your writing process more engaging and your essay more compelling.

Example

For this week’s ENG 101 discussion, I have opted to delve into the intriguing comparison between “Being Rich vs. Being Famous.” This topic fascinates me because, while both statuses offer unique advantages and challenges, they also share surprising similarities, impacting individuals’ lives profoundly yet differently.

To complete the prewrite, refer to the following strategies discussed in your e-book and choose one of the following: Freewriting, Mapping/Clustering, Brainstorming/Listing, Questioning.

Prewriting 

Next, we will choose the type of type of writing strategy we want for ENG 101 Week 7 Discussion: Compare and Contrast. I am choosing Mapping/Clustering. 

• Introduction to Mapping/Clustering: This technique helps in visually organizing your thoughts. It allows you to explore different facets of each condition.
• Creating Your Map: Start by writing “Being Rich” and “Being Famous” in separate circles. Branch out from each circle with attributes, experiences, and consequences associated with each.
• Comparing and Contrasting: Draw lines between similar attributes or direct contrasts. This visual network will serve as the foundation of your essay.

Example

In preparation for my essay, I employed the mapping/clustering strategy to organize my thoughts and analyze the relationships between these two conditions. This technique was particularly helpful in visually distinguishing and connecting the attributes of wealth and fame. On my map, “Being Rich” included branches like financial security, privacy issues, and luxury lifestyles, whereas “Being Famous” encompassed aspects such as public recognition, media scrutiny, and influence.

Post your completed prewrite to the discussion board.

Drafting the Essay

Now, we will write the discussion and post it.

• Introduction: Start with a hook that attracts the reader’s interest, followed by a clear thesis statement that outlines the points of comparison and contrast.
• Body Paragraphs: Structure your body paragraphs around each significant point of comparison and contrast. Use evidence and examples to support your claims.
• Conclusion: Summarize the main points and reinforce your thesis. Reflect on the broader implications of being rich versus being famous.

Example

During the clustering, a fascinating pattern emerged: both states share a public perception facet but diverge significantly in privacy aspects. For instance, while wealth often allows greater control over privacy, fame typically results in reduced privacy. This contrast will serve as a pivotal point in my essay, exploring how these differences shape personal experiences and societal interactions.

The essay began with an engaging hook: “Money can buy solitude; fame often denies it.” This line aims to captivate readers by setting the stage for a discussion on how rich and famous individuals navigate their public and private lives. My thesis statement highlights that despite the apparent allure of wealth and fame, each carries its unique set of challenges and rewards that profoundly influence one’s lifestyle and personal satisfaction.

In the body paragraphs, I dissect these themes further. One section explores how wealth can shield individuals from public exposure, allowing for a more controlled personal environment. In contrast, another paragraph discusses how fame often invites unavoidable public scrutiny, affecting personal freedom and mental health. Each point is supported by examples from public figures who have expressed their struggles and triumphs in dealing with these issues.

Concluding the essay, I reflect on the broader implications of choosing between being rich and being famous, suggesting that the decision involves a complex trade-off between privacy and influence. The conclusion reiterates the thesis and leaves the reader pondering the personal values and life choices that define our pursuit of happiness and fulfillment in the context of wealth and fame.

This exploration not only enhances our understanding of the distinct dynamics associated with being rich and famous but also encourages a deeper reflection on what we value most in life—privacy, influence, or perhaps a balance of both.

In your responses to your classmates, contribute to the discussion by providing critical feedback. DO NOT simply post “Great job!” or “I really like that topic!” This is not a critical analysis! Please comment on the strengths, weaknesses, further ideas for direction, and general feedback on the topic choice. You might provide your constructive feedback that will help them to improve their writing, as next week, they will re-write their passages based on your feedback from this week.

Peer Responses

Responding to peers is one of the vital parts of the ENG 101 Week 7 Discussion: Compare and Contrast discussion post. We need to provide at least two peer responses. I will provide one example post. You can write your peer responses by keeping the below points in mind.

• Engaging Critically: Provide specific feedback. Instead of generic praise, point out specific strengths and suggest areas for improvement.
• Constructive Feedback: Offer concrete suggestions that can help improve your classmates’ arguments or presentations.

Example

Response 01

Hey Sara, nice post! Your exploration of the implications of being rich versus being famous is thoughtful. However, it could be enriched by incorporating more real-life examples to substantiate the claims. Perhaps consider adding case studies of individuals who have experienced both wealth and fame, examining how these aspects have differently shaped their public and private lives. This would provide a deeper, more empirical layer to your analysis.

Response 02

We are supposed to write two peer responses. I have addressed the given instructions in one response. Following these instructions, you can write your peer responses to the Week 7 Discussion without a hassle.

Closing

This How-To Guide provides a structured approach to writing a compare-and-contrast essay on “Being Rich vs. Being Famous.” By following these steps, you will develop a well-organized and insightful essay. Remember, the key to a successful essay is not just in the information you provide but in how you analyze and present that information to make a compelling argument.

Precap

In the next Module 8, we will discuss the Compare/Contrast Passage and rewrite it by revising and correcting the mistakes.