Compare and Contrast Essay

Now’s your opportunity to flex your compare and contrast muscles. In the readings, “The New Jim Crow,” by Michelle Alexander, and “The Case for Black Optimism”, by Coleman Hughes, the authors discuss one topic (the black experience in the U.S.), but each author expresses a different viewpoint.

For this essay, you will compare and contrast Hughes’ and Alexanders’ viewpoints.

To guide your argument development, use this They Say/I Say template:

On the one hand, X argue(s)__________. On the other hand, Y claim(s)__________. My own view is__________.

To help guide your writing process:

Use the compare and contrast graphic organizer on Canvas (optional, but helpful).

What is each author’s central argument?

How do their arguments differ? How are they similar?

Which points do the authors discuss?

Objectives/Learning Outcomes

This assignment will familiarize you with reading and writing conventions, such as thesis development, organization, reading for understanding, and analysis.