Download Comparison & Contrast

Access to Apprenticeship
Workplace Support Services Branch, Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities
Revised
2011
When you read Passage 1, it doesn’t say anywhere that types of greases will be compared but
this is what is happening. We will look at Passage 1 in more detail to see how the comparison is
organized.
In paragraph one, you learn:
 what lubricants are: substances such as oil, grease or graphite;
 where they are used: on surfaces which slide or move against each other; and
 why they are used: [to] reduce friction and wear between components and increase their
life.
The answers to what, where, and why are the type of questions that you could answer from this
description. This description applies to all lubricants.
The next paragraph provides information about a specific type of lubricant – grease. The
characteristics, advantages, and limitations of grease are described. The passage tells you:
 how machine grease is made;
 the effects of adding thickener (water resistance, stays in place, etc.); and
 the percentage of soap in two types of grease: general purpose greases, and special
purpose greases.
This description applies to all greases. This is how they are the same. For specific comparisons,
you have to read on.
Paragraphs three to eight provide details about simple soap greases. The similarities and
differences in use and composition of different soap greases are compared. You are given
information needed to decide which grease to use in different situations.
By comparing and contrasting such things as composition and use, you can find out which item
is suitable or recommended for a specific application.
Using the information
When you learn about materials such as lubricants, you get information and details that enable
you to make comparisons. You could explain to someone else what to expect if you substituted
one type of grease for another. Comparing greases can also show why an inappropriate choice,
such as using sodium soap at low temperatures, could produce an unsuitable outcome, such as
the grease thickening too much.
When you learn about one thing, in this case, greases, you will probably go on to learn
information about the features and use of other lubricants. Be prepared to think about their
similarities and differences. Consider making your own list of advantages and disadvantages so
you have a handy reference.
Communication Skills for The Auto Body Repair Trades
Comparison of Information
Page 3