Paragraph Patterns
Classification Sequence or Process Simple Listing Comparison and Contrast Cause and Effect Definition Example
Classification when you use the classification technique, you are taking many separate items and grouping them into categories according to qualities and characteristics that they all share. Signals for classification: categories; groups; parts; types; characteristics; elements; kinds; sorts; ways; classes; features; numbers… For example The Chinese responded to prejudice and persecution in two ways, First, they created an insulated society-within-a-society that needed little from the dominant culture. Second, they displayed a stoic willingness to persevere, and to take without complaint or resistance whatever America dished out.
Sequence/process Chronological order Spatial order Order of importance Sequential order (How to Make Cookies. First, get your materials. Then, make your dough. Lastly, cook your dough at 400 degrees for 10 minutes.) Note: The order in sequence is significant and cannot be transposed.
Simple Listing Writers develop their ideas by listing their supporting statements. They simply list or enumerate a series of details that support a point. The details may be examples, reasons, or types of things, and they are often, but not always numbered. Note: The order in simple listing is not significant and can be transposed. Signal words: 1,2,3,4; a,b,c,d; first, second, third; moreover; next
Comparison and Contrast A paragraph that demonstrates comparison and/or contrast examines how given subjects are either similar or different. Comparison examines how the subjects are the same. Contrast examines how the subjects are different.
Signals for Comparison and Contrast Compare Like/alike Resembles In comparison Likewise Similar In the same way/manner Parallels similarly Although However On the other hand As opposed to / on the contrary In contrast to Rather than But Instead Unlike Conversely Nevertheless whereas
Elephants are the biggest land creatures on Earth, and among the smartest and most endearing. In their lives and social dynamics they resemble humans in many ways. They lives in matriarchal societies - groups of sisters, aunts, nieces and nephew, often heard by a wise old grandmother. The bonds formed within an elephant family can last a lifetime that may span 60 or more years. Scientists who have studies elephants in the wild have noted in them such human-like characteristics as joy, grief, anger, loyalty, patience, playfulness, and sibling rivalry. To the 17th century poet John Donne, the elephant was “Nature’s great masterpiece…the only harmless great thing.”
Cause and Effect A cause and effect paragraph develops an idea by explaining the causes of something or by showing the effects of something. The paragraph might move from cause to effects or from an effect to its causes. Signals: accordingly, as a result, because, consequently, for this reason, hence, if . . . then, since, so, then, therefore, thereupon, thus, to this end Example In all countries, enforcing the laws that do exist remains a challenge. As a result, violence against children goes unpunished. There is much to be done to train and support law enforcement and judicial personnel to understand the key role they play in protecting children against violence.
Definition The purpose of a definition paragraph is to fully and clearly explain a term or a subject, and this is generally done using a combination of three different methods: providing a synonym, placing the topic within a larger category, or providing an explanation of what the topic is NOT in order to better explain what it IS. Signal words: is defined as... refers to... is called... is described as... means... a term / concept...
Example A paragraph uses specific illustrations to clarify a general statement. Signal words?