New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

What is the purpose of compare/contrast writing?

1. To persuade the reader to take a specific side

2. To show how an event occurred historically

3. To articulate similarities and differences between two or more subjects

4. To describe a setting in vivid detail

The correct answer is: To articulate similarities and differences between two or more subjects

The purpose of compare/contrast writing is to articulate similarities and differences between two or more subjects. This type of writing allows the author to explore characteristics, attributes, and relationships between the subjects being examined. By doing so, the writer can highlight how the subjects are alike in certain aspects and how they differ in others, providing the reader a clearer understanding of both subjects. This approach is particularly useful in academic and analytical writing, where understanding nuanced differences can lead to deeper insights and more informed conclusions. In contrast to the other options, which focus on persuading the reader, narrating historical events, or creating detailed descriptions of settings, compare/contrast writing specifically prioritizes the analysis and comparison of the subjects at hand. This analytical approach encourages critical thinking and enhances the reader's comprehension of the material.