2019 Comparative Analysis

Comparative Analysis - Structure
Introduction (BACT)
Introduce the background to the issue, the context and key
players. Why has this issue become prominent at this time?
Introduce the 2-3 text:
◦ Article/text type and source
◦ Headline
◦ Author (representative of which stakeholder group? Bias?)
◦ Mention the intended audience of each article
Compare the contention of each of the articles (use linking
words to contrast)
Compare tone of each of the three articles (use linking words to
contrast)
Sample Intro – Short, Sharp and Clear
The attack on two people by a pit bull terrier has sparked controversy in the community as to
whether or not this breed of dog should be restricted. A warning by Premier John Brumby that
“dangerous dogs will be put down without a right of appeal by owners” led to passionate
responses in the Herald Sun on 20 October 2009. In an opinion piece (“Pit bull bans are not the
way to go”) Bonnie Norton, secretary of the American Pit Bull Terrier Club of Australia, adopts a
personal stance when contending that ”bans are, quite simply, ineffective as a means of
reducing dog attacks”, yet balances this approach by attempting to substantiate her arguments
through her long-standing expertise. The unequivocal editorial “Put them down”, however, is
clearly in support of “keep[ing] this killer breed off the streets” – though ultimately quite
skeptical that the government’s efforts will actually yield any tangible results.
comparison of contention
Comparative Analysis - Structure
Body Paragraphs (ALEE) Introduction – issue and context,
article/text details, comparison of
[Body paragraphs are built upon arguments advanced by each text. Longer text
might require 2-3 body paragraphs, shorter text might require 1-2 body contentions and tone
paragraphs.]
Consider the arguments presented as well as

the language used, examples of language use Text 1 – hook, argument 1 (including
and the intended effect of the language on image), argument 2
the audience.
Use linking words between your body Text 1 – argument 3, rebuttal
paragraphs – moreover, similarly, likewise, in
contrast to, conflictingly etc. This is essential
for highlighting how arguments unfold and Text 2 – Argument 1 & 2 analysis
develop, as well as the comparative element
between texts.
Comparison – arguments, language
and audience in text 1 and 2
Comparison Analysis - Structure
Comparative Paragraph
Compare the overall similarities and differences in
the types of argument and language that each text
utilises/predominantly relies upon etc.
Compare audience – how does each piece work on
their intended audience? How is each piece differ
in their target audience?
Consider the “bigger picture” here – compare the
perspectives of the authors, what may have
motivated them to write etc. Are there any
contextual factors which impact on an article?
What values does each article espouse and how
are they different?
Sample Comparative Paragraph
It is clear that both articles champion the rights of individuals in the community, with Norton
supporting the rights of dog owners and the editorial upholding the right of the public to
security. Both acknowledge that part of the resolution to this issue resides in the law, though
they clearly have different notions of what the law should be. It is not surprising that Norton – a
keen lover of the breed – advocates for the long view with her reference to “education” as the
“better” solution, aiming thereby to avoid more punitive and “extreme tactics” which would see
pit bulls put down. In contrast, the editorial team seek more immediate redress through ”strong
laws”, attempting to curry favour with a readership that primarily values personal safety. Much
of the responsibility, the editorial implies, lies with owners – and so it follows that they should
bear the consequences. This accounts for the rather unsympathetic tone of this article,
especially when compared to the more reasoned and nuanced response to the ban in the
opinion piece.

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Comparative Analysis - Structure

Consider the arguments presented as well as

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