compare and contrast music essay. "The parent trap" and "the sound of music" how to get started?
Whenever you are writing a comparison/contrast paper (paragraph, essay, research paper), you need to plan it out very carefully on paper first.
Try this:
1. Write all the information about one of your topics (a list is most helpful) on one piece of paper.
2. Write all the information about the other topic on another piece of paper.
3. Then put the ideas together in this order:
1. Intro
2. All about topic A
~~~2A. detail 1
~~~2B. detail 2
~~~2C. detail 3
~~~2D. detail 4
~~~2E. detail 5
3. All about topic B
~~~3A. detail 1
~~~3B. detail 2
~~~3C. detail 3
~~~3D. detail 4
~~~3E. detail 5
4. Concl.
The number of details for each topic will vary depending on your main points. I would include comparisons (how they are similar) in the introduction and conclusion, but sections 2 and 3 and all those details will be stating and explaining how they are different.
There are two recognized patterns for writing comparison/contrast papers. One is casually referred to as "zig-zag,” but can be very confusing for the reader if you don’t use transitions effectively. The other is topic-by-topic (which is what I've outlined above) and is much easier for the reader to follow.
See http://leo.stcloudstate.edu/acadwrite/comparcontrast.html for further help with comparison/contrast writing.
Once you have organized your information, please repost if you’d like feedback from someone here.
To get started on a compare and contrast music essay between "The Parent Trap" and "The Sound of Music," you can follow a step-by-step approach:
1. Familiarize yourself with the movies:
Watch both "The Parent Trap" and "The Sound of Music" to understand their plot, characters, themes, and overall musical style. Take notes while watching, paying attention to key similarities and differences.
2. Identify the focus of comparison:
Determine which specific aspects of the movies you want to compare and contrast. This could include music genres and styles, lyrics, composers, historical context, cultural impact, character development through music, or any other relevant factors.
3. Create an outline:
Develop an outline for your essay. This will help organize your thoughts, identify key points of comparison, and establish a logical structure for your essay. Consider dividing it into sections based on different aspects of comparison, such as music styles, lyrics, and impact.
4. Research and gather information:
Conduct research to gather additional information about the movies, composers, and music styles featured in both films. Use reputable sources such as books, articles, and scholarly websites. This will provide you with supporting evidence and deeper insights for your essay.
5. Analyze the songs:
Examine the songs in each movie individually, paying attention to melody, instrumentation, lyrics, and overall mood. Compare the musical genres and styles used in both movies, making note of similarities and differences. You could also analyze the role of music in character development and storytelling.
6. Compare lyrics:
Look closely at the lyrics of the songs in both movies. Analyze the themes, messages, and emotions conveyed through the lyrics. Compare their storytelling approach, depth, and impact on the overall narratives of the movies.
7. Consider historical and cultural contexts:
Assess the historical and cultural context in which each movie was made. Understand the time period, societal norms, and the influence of contemporary musical trends. Compare how these factors are reflected in the music of each film.
8. Identify similarities and differences:
Based on your research and analysis, identify and highlight the key similarities and differences between "The Parent Trap" and "The Sound of Music." Use specific examples and evidence to support your comparisons.
9. Develop your thesis statement:
Construct a clear and concise thesis statement that succinctly summarizes your main argument about the comparison and contrast between the two movies. This statement will serve as the backbone of your essay.
10. Write the essay:
Start writing your essay, ensuring that it follows a logical structure based on your outline. Use your research, analysis, and examples to support your points of comparison. Provide explanations and interpretations of the similarities and differences you have identified.
Remember to proofread and revise your essay to ensure clarity, coherence, and proper grammar.