first and last day of school compare and contrast essay
The first and last day of school are both important days in a student's life. These days mark the beginning and end of an academic year, and are filled with various emotions and experiences. While the first day of school is filled with excitement and anticipation, the last day of school is bittersweet and nostalgic. In this essay, we will compare and contrast these two significant days.
On the first day of school, students are usually filled with excitement and nerves. They are eager to meet their new classmates, make new friends, and learn from their teachers. The air is filled with anticipation as students enter the school building, unsure of what to expect. They may also feel a bit anxious about finding their classrooms or adjusting to a new school routine. The first day of school is typically full of introductions and ice-breaker activities, helping students become acquainted with one another and easing their nerves. Teachers often take this day to outline their expectations for the year and introduce the curriculum.
On the other hand, the last day of school is a mix of happiness and sadness. Students are thrilled that summer break is just around the corner, bringing with it months of freedom and relaxation. They eagerly await the end of classes, exams, and homework. However, there is also a sense of sadness as students say goodbye to their friends, classmates, and teachers. Some students may be moving on to a new school, while others may simply miss the familiar faces they have grown used to seeing throughout the year. On the last day of school, students often exchange phone numbers and promise to keep in touch over the summer. They may also receive yearbooks or engage in fun activities to celebrate the end of the year.
Another difference between the first and last day of school is the atmosphere. The first day is usually filled with a bustling energy, as everyone is excited and ready to begin a new academic year. In contrast, the last day is often more relaxed, with a sense of accomplishment lingering in the air. Students have completed their coursework and can look back on the year with a sense of pride. There may also be various end-of-year celebrations, such as awards ceremonies or graduation ceremonies, which add to the overall atmosphere of reflection and nostalgia.
In conclusion, while the first and last day of school are both significant days in a student's life, they have some key differences. The first day is filled with excitement and nerves, as students venture into the unknown. In contrast, the last day is bittersweet, as students bid farewell to their classmates and teachers. Both days, however, are important milestones that mark the beginning and end of another academic year.
Title: Comparing and Contrasting the First and Last Day of School
Introduction:
The first and last day of school are significant milestones in every student's academic journey. These days mark the beginning and end of a school year, each carrying unique experiences and emotions. In this essay, we will explore and compare the first and last day of school, highlighting both their similarities and differences.
Body:
I. Preparation and anticipation:
A. First day:
1. Students prepare by organizing supplies and getting new school gear.
2. There is excitement and anticipation as students look forward to meeting new classmates and teachers.
B. Last day:
1. Students clean out lockers and desks, marking the end of a year's worth of work.
2. There may be a mix of emotions, including relief, joy, and sadness over leaving familiar routines and friends.
II. Classroom atmosphere:
A. First day:
1. Students may feel a combination of nervousness and eagerness.
2. Teachers set expectations and introduce themselves and classroom rules.
B. Last day:
1. Students are more comfortable and relaxed.
2. The classroom atmosphere is often more casual, with activities centered around reflection and celebration.
III. Activities and learning:
A. First day:
1. Icebreakers and team-building exercises are common.
2. Teachers introduce the curriculum and establish goals for the year.
B. Last day:
1. There may be special activities, such as field trips or class parties.
2. Students reflect on their progress throughout the year and celebrate achievements.
IV. Relationships:
A. First day:
1. Students meet new classmates and form initial impressions.
2. Teachers begin to build connections with students.
B. Last day:
1. Friendships have had time to develop and grow stronger.
2. Students may feel emotional about leaving friends and teachers they have bonded with.
V. Thoughts and aspirations:
A. First day:
1. Students may have mixed feelings about the upcoming year, including hopes, fears, and goals.
2. There is an eagerness to start fresh and make a positive impression.
B. Last day:
1. Students reflect on their achievements and experiences of the year.
2. They may start making plans for the summer break or anticipate the next grade level.
Conclusion:
The first and last day of school are both significant moments that shape a student's academic year. While the first day is filled with anticipation, introductions, and fresh starts, the last day allows for reflection, celebration, and farewells. By comparing and contrasting these two days, we gain a deeper appreciation for the growth, memories, and connections made during the school year.
To write a compare and contrast essay about the first and last day of school, you can follow these steps:
1. Brainstorm: Start by making a list of similarities and differences between the first and last day of school. Think about the emotions, activities, expectations, and changes that typically occur during both days.
2. Choose a structure: Decide on a structure for your essay. You could follow a point-by-point structure, where you discuss each similarity or difference in separate paragraphs. Alternatively, you can use a block structure, where you dedicate one section to the first day of school and another section to the last day of school.
3. Start with an introduction: Begin your essay with an engaging introduction that provides some background information and grabs the reader's attention. You could talk about the significance of the first and last day of school and why they are worth comparing and contrasting.
4. Develop your body paragraphs: In each body paragraph, focus on one specific point of comparison or contrast. Provide specific examples and details to support your analysis. For instance, you can discuss how on the first day of school, there is often a mix of excitement and nervousness, whereas on the last day, there is a sense of accomplishment and relief.
5. Use transitional words: Make sure to use transitional words and phrases to smoothly transition between ideas. Words like "similarly," "in contrast," "on the other hand," "also," "however," and "likewise" can help make your thoughts more coherent and connected.
6. Provide analysis: After presenting each point of comparison or contrast, analyze the significance and impact of those similarities and differences. Consider the reasons behind the changes that occur during the school year and their effects on students and their attitudes.
7. Conclude your essay: In your conclusion, summarize the main points you discussed throughout the essay. Restate the significance of comparing and contrasting the first and last day of school, and offer some final thoughts or reflections.
Remember, while writing a compare and contrast essay, it is essential to maintain a balanced approach and provide evidence for the similarities and differences you are discussing. Use specific examples and personal experiences, if possible, to make your essay more engaging and persuasive.