Do you ever look back and reflect on how different you are now? Some things are probably the same but maybe you changed in other aspects. In the following writing exercise, we would like you to think of these differences and similarities and write a paragraph where you include aspects like how many friends you have, your interests, your hobbies, the music you listen to, and ways to entertain yourself. And since you’re going to compare and contrast, we recommend brainstorming some ideas in a chart before starting the paragraph.
Look at the example of Mariana, a girl whose life is pretty different after she finished studying high school.
| In the past | Now | |
|---|---|---|
| Entertainment activities |
We went: to the cinema to the arcade. |
I don’t usually see my friends anymore Sometimes I chat with them. I play with my baby I read short stories to her. |
| Daily activities |
I went to school in the morning shift When I got home, I had lunch I used to wash the dishes. I did homework. |
In the mornings I usually wake up really early to feed my baby. I take care of her during the day. |
| Hobbies |
I watched my favorite TV series I went to the gym after school. On the weekends I went to the park to walk my dogs. |
I only have time to check my Facebook account when my baby’s sleeping. I see my friends have fun; I miss them a little. |
| Music | Pop music on the radio mostly. |
Classic lullabies It helps my baby sleep. |
It’s your turn to complete this text about Mariana. Take a look at the key words in the comparative chart and complete the text, don’t forget to use linking words such as and, but, or, also and because.