AP WORLD: WRITING TIPS

The Comparative Essay

The Comparative Essay usually asks you to analyze broad historical issues for two areas of the world.

Pick the areas you know the most about! Sample Question: Compare the dynamics of

trade of trade in TWO of the following regions for the periods mentioned:

China during the Qin and Han dynasties The Mediterranean during the Roman Empire Mesoamerica during the Maya Empires. South America during the Inca Empire

The Thesis Make sure you address the QUESTION! Thesis must compare similarities and

differences!

Is it thesis or not? Why or why not?

In Maya culture the elites used a form of hieroglyphic writing to keep records while elites in the Inca society used a complex method of knot tying called quipu to keep records.

NO: Good facts, but it addresses technology not trade. Doesn’t address similarities!

Is it thesis or not? Why or why not?

Trade dynamics in the Roman Empire centered around the Mediterranean Sea. In China, however; they used rivers for trade. Both societies used water routes to transport goods.

YES: Not sophisticated, but addresses similarities and differences.

Is it thesis or not? Why or why not?

The greatest similarity between the Han and the Roman Empires involved trade since both were linked by the Silk Road and both used the structures of empire to support transportation projects. The greatest difference was in the types of items traded by each civilization.

YES: Much more sophisticated thesis.

Did You Address All Parts of the Question?

Did you address:

- the dynamics of trade

- Similarities?

- Differences?

*** Similarities can be the tough part when comparing 2 different regions.

Categorical “Split” Form Thesis that has an argument and sets out topics Body Paragraph 1 = Topic 1 - Sims and Diffs,

Evidence for both, Reasons for sim or diff Body Paragraph 2 = Topic 2 - Sims and Diffs,

Evidence for both, Reasons for sim or diff Body Paragraph 3 = Topic 3 - Sims and Diffs,

Evidence for both, Reasons for sim or diff Conclusion

Did You Provide Enough Historical Evidence (Facts)? Need to know facts about the topic to get the points on this

essay. Incorrect facts do NOT take points away. Essays should have at least one piece of evidence for each

region. Examples: - The Inca road system facilitated trade from one region of the

empire to another. - Roman ships carried wheat, wine, and olive oil throughout

the Mediterranean Sea. - Chinese trade expanded dramatically through the Silk Roads

during the Han dynasty.

Did you make a “direct comparison” between the societies? Cannot be found in the thesis. Using the “categorical split” essay form

makes this easier. Use comparative words to link the 2

regions. Examples: also, as well as, furthermore, on

the other hand, however, etc…

Did you analyze the reasons for the similarities and differences? Do this by answering the question…Why? Why did these similarities and/or differences exist? Examples: - The Romans and Incans had elaborate road systems

because both had empires that stretched across vast territories.

- Rome was located on the Mediterranean Sea, consequently its trade was water-based to a great extent. The Aztec Empire differed since its location within Mesoamerica meant that its trade was not as focused on water travel.

Go for the “expanded core” points. Must receive all of the 7 core points first of all.

Below are some possible areas that readers are looking for while scoring essays.

Clear and analytical thesis Abundance of evidence Frequent and consistent direct comparisons

between areas Comparisons related to larger global processes.

DOS S and Don’tS

Do: Select regions for which you have the most

information. Make sure your thesis addresses all parts of the

question. Include similarities and differences between the

two areas. Use your comparative words and phrases. Mention plenty of facts (evidence). Offer analysis!

Don’t Favor one area and exclude the other. Use facts that are off topic. You won’t have

points deducted, but it will make your essay more difficult to read.

Discuss each area in isolation. Remember the “categorical split” essay form!