Introduction to The Comparative - Leaving Certificate 2025

Comparative Essay Introduction for 2026 Higher Level Cohort

This comprehensive resource is designed to introduce the 2026 Higher Level students to the comparative section of the Leaving Certificate English course. It includes a detailed PowerPoint presentation and an accompanying PDF, both focusing on the critical components of comparative essay writing.

The PowerPoint provides a clear and engaging overview of how to approach comparative essays, explaining the importance of General Vision and Viewpoint as well as Cultural Context in relation to the two texts being studied. Students will gain a solid understanding of how these elements shape the texts and their comparisons. The presentation also introduces the CARE acronym (Compare, Argument, Reference, Explain), offering a practical guide for structuring essays effectively.

The PDF expands on this by offering a more detailed breakdown of how to approach comparative writing, step-by-step, with tips on how to analyse and structure their arguments. It explains in-depth the role of cultural context in the comparison and provides students with the tools to integrate general vision and viewpoint in their writing.

This resource is ideal for students looking to build confidence in comparative essay writing, focusing on the importance of answering the question and staying focused on the cultural and thematic elements that drive a strong analysis