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
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