Boyz n the Hood

Worksheet

Here are the main characters:

          You have some choices for this essay.  At this link, Supplemental Worksheet, you can find a very specific discussion of the movie that shows you how to develop a comparison/contrast analysis and a causal analysis in order to examine Singleton’s theme of the importance of a father.  However, you are welcome to examine any of the other salient themes of the movie -- e.g., the role of women in raising boys, the definition of a man, male/female relationships.  Even if you chose a theme of your own you'd like to explore, you will still need to compare and contrast elements of the movie to develop your thesis.

          Begin by developing points of comparison between the two families:

How are the families similar?  Note that, when you answer this question, you are making a claim.  For example,  you might say, "Both families live in the same neighborhood."  Then, you need evidence to show the kind of neighborhood it is, and that evidence would come in the form of a description of the neighborhood.

       Then, develop your specific points of contrast between the two families:

How do they differ?  Note that as you make claims to develop the following chart, be sure to focus on the same points for each family and to recall at least one scene, your evidence, that you can describe to demonstrate your point.
 

      Be sure to check out the Supplemental Worksheet so you can see an outline of what your essay might look like.

          Of course, you are welcome (and encouraged) to develop more than three points of contrast.