Clauses and phrases showing contrast and exception

Use while, unlike, and in contrast to in order to present contrasting information, especially in writing.

While the typical Italian person studies until the age of 22, the typical Japanese person studies until the
age of 24.
Unlike the Japanese, Italians seem to drink a lot of bottled water.
In contrast to Italians, the Japanese travel a lot more by rail.

Use except (that), except (for), and except for the fact (that) to show an exception.

Both like TV, except (that) the typical Italian person watches more.
Italian and Japanese people are fairly different, except for the age they get married.
Japanese people typically consume less, except for the fact that they drink more tea.

Here's some information about customs. How are they different in other places?
Write sentences showing contrasts and indicating exceptions.

1. When people in the U.S. go to a party, they usually arrive a few minutes late.

Unlike people in the U.S., most people where I live arrive on time for parties.

2. Most people in Canada have cereal and milk for breakfast some days of the week.

3. Most people in the U.S. who study a foreign language in college choose Spanish.

4. In the U.K., it's common for friends to split the bill at a restaurant.

5. For people in Italy, lunch is the main meal of the day.

6. Women in Spain usually kiss people on both cheeks when they meet.

Are you typical? Complete these sentences and compare with a partner.

1. Unlike most people where I live, I don't own a car.

2. In contrast to most of my friends, .. .

3. While a lot of the people where I live ...

4. I'm similar to many of my friends, except that ...