Part One
Look at the phrases in the table which can be used when we compare things. Decide which you would find useful in formal writing or formal conversation.
Describing similarities
The Canadian education system ___________ the Australian system.
- has a lot in common with
- is similar to
- is much the same as
- reminds me of
- resembles
- seems like
- is comparable to
- is rather like
- is very much like
Describing differences
The British education system ___________ the American system.
- is nothing like
- has little in common with
- is quite different from
- differs from
- is not the same as
- bears no resemblance to
Part Two
In groups discuss the similarities and differences between the topics in the table below. What are the advantages and disadvantages? You may want or need to include these words too:
- However
- In contrast
- On the other hand
- But
- Similarly
- In the same way
| Topic 1 |
|---|
| learning languages |
| learning to drive |
| the Canadian school system |
| school uniforms |
| co-educational schools |
| private schools |
| Topic 2 |
|---|
| learning sciences |
| riding a bicycle |
| your school system |
| street clothes |
| single sex schools |
| public schools |