Organizing Information
Textbook Organization: Organizational Patterns often indicate the main idea. Transition words (signal words) can indicate a particular pattern.
Transitional Words Signal the levels of importance, a connection, or a direction of thought. Are also called signal words. Indicate the relationship of ideas.
Simple Listing Items are randomly listed in a series of supporting facts or details. Supporting elements are of equal value. The order in which they are presented is of no importance. Changing the order of the items does not change the meaning of the paragraph. Use transitional words such as in addition, also, another, several, for example, a number of.
Definition The concept is defined initially. Then it is expanded with examples and restatements. A defined term is usually signaled by italicized or boldfaced type.
Description Description is similar to listing. The characteristics are similar to a definition. It is similar to a simple list of details.
Time Order, Sequence, or Narration Items are listed: In the order in which they occurred (Ex: time order) In a specifically planned order in which they must develop(Ex: narrative writing, tells a story)
Contrast With Contrast: Items are presented according to differences between them. Signal words include: different in contrast on the other hand but however bigger than
Comparison Items are presented according to similarities among them. Signal words include: similar in the same way parallels
Comparison & Contrast This combines both comparisons and contrasts together into a single paragraph.
Cause and Effect An element is shown as producing another element. One is the cause or the “happening.” The other is the particular result or effect produced by the cause.
Classification This is used to simplify a complex topic. Information is divided into a certain number of groups or categories. The divisions are named. The parts are explained. Signals words include: two divisions three groups four elements five classes six levels seven categories
Summary A summary comes at the end of an article or chapter It condenses the main idea into a short concluding statement. Signal words include: in conclusion briefly to sum up in short in a nutshell.
Location or Spatial Order This identifies the whereabouts of a place or object. Signal words are: north next to near below close by within around
Generalization and Example A general statement or conclusion is supported with specific examples. Signal words include: to restate that that is for example to illustrate for instance
Mixed Organizational Patterns Often articles have an overall pattern with individual paragraphs having a different pattern.