The Writing Methods: Illustration Purpose: To explain your subject with instances that show readers its nature or character. Example: An instance that reveals the whole type. Writers show the nature or character of a group from which it is taken and often illustrate a general statement or generalization. “One thing selected from among the many” Generalization: A statement about a class or group based upon an examination of some of its members. The more members examined, the more representative they are of the class, the sturdier the generalization. Insufficient examples can lead to a hasty generalization.

The Writing Methods: Illustration Two Types of Illustrative Examples Specific Example: An example based upon fact or personal experience. These examples are more likely to carry greater weight. Hypothetical Example: An example that has been fabricated, or made up, in order to provide a possible example to better illustrate the generalization. Should only be used sparingly. Anecdote: A brief narrative, or retelling of a story or event usually used to serve as an illustration for a greater generalization. These can be either specific or hypothetical.

The Writing Methods: Illustration Checklist for Revising an Illustrative Essay Generalization What general statement do your examples illustrate? Will it be clear to readers what ties the examples together? Support Do you have enough examples to establish your generalization or will readers be left needing more? Specifics Are your examples detailed? Does each illustration capture some aspects of the generalization?

Small Group Discussions Review “Mexifornia” As a group, discuss Critical Thinking Questions 2, 3, 5, & 6. Individually, select either question 1 or 4 and respond in a 5-paragraph essay using elements from the article.

Small Group Discussions Review “In Search of Notorious PhDs” As a group, discuss Critical Thinking Questions 2, 4, 6, & 8.