Compare and Contrast Essay Draft
For the written assignment due this week you will choose two (2) items and compose a first draft of a compare and contrast essay using either the block arrangement or the point-by-point arrangement discussed in Chapter Six of the Essentials of College Writing text.  Be sure to write the essay objectively in order to avoid revealing a preference for one item over the other.

Before writing your draft this week, engage in a prewriting activity and use the techniques you have learned in this course for drafting. (Your prewriting will not be submitted.)

You draft must be:
1. In paragraph form.
2. Written in either the block arrangement or the point-by-point arrangement discussed in Chapter Six of the Essentials of College Writing text.
3. Objective and have a clear and concise argument (thesis statement).
4. Written in third person perspective (he, she, author, etc.).
5. Be proofread for grammatical errors.
6. One and one-half (1.5)  to two double-spaced pages (2) in length (excluding the title page), and formatted according to APA style
Provides a draft that is both a comparison and a contrast between two items
Total: 2.00
Distinguished – Provides an engaging draft that skillfully compares and contrasts two items with excellent  and clear objectivity.
Implements the block or point-by-point arrangement discussed in the text
Total: 1.25
Distinguished – Skillfully and accurately implements the block or point-by-point arrangement.
APA Format
Total: 0.25
Distinguished – Accurately uses APA formatting consistently.
Page requirement
Total: 0.25
Distinguished – The paper is between one and one-half and two pages in length
Written Communication: Control of Syntax and Mechanics
Total: 0.75
Distinguished – Displays meticulous comprehension and organization of syntax and mechanics, such as spelling and grammar. Written work contains no errors, and is very easy to understand. Written work contains only language that is appropriate in diction, tone, and point-of-view (third person v. first person) according to the assignment guidelines as well as academic writing standards.
Written Communication: Content Development
Total: 0.50
Distinguished – Uses appropriate, pertinent, and persuasive content to discover and develop sophisticated ideas within the context of the discipline, shaping the work as a whole.