Common thought patterns Adapted from: Academic Reading, Fifth Edition by Kathleen T. McWhorter
Learning Objectives: To recognize common academic thought patterns To use thought patterns to focus your reading
Recognizing Organizational Patterns By identifying the pattern of a paragraph, it becomes more meaningful and easier to remember. Once you recognize a pattern, its organization becomes familiar and predictable.
Common Patterns Definition Classification Order or sequence Cause and effect Comparison and Contrast Listing/enumeration
Definition Pattern This pattern is common in most textbooks to help define specialized vocabulary of the subject. Clue Words: is means refers to can be defined as
Classification Pattern This pattern divides a topic into parts on the basis of common or shared characteristics (i.e., movies: comedy, horror, mystery, romance). Clue Words: several kinds numerous types classified as
Order or Sequence Pattern Chronological Order Process Order of Importance Spatial Order Clue Words: primary, first, last, lower, outer, next, primarily
Which type of order or sequence are the following? Several statistical procedures are used to track the changes in the divorce rate. The spinal cord is located within the spinal column; it looks like a section of rope or twine. The transition from medieval to modern societies occurred from approximately 1400 to 1800.
Cause and Effect Pattern This pattern is used in the sciences, technologies, and social sciences to show a cause/effect relationship. Clue Words: causes creates leads to results in
Comparison and Contrast Pattern This pattern emphasizes similarities and differences and is often used in the social sciences, literature, and business. Clue Words: similarities resembles differences unlike, like
Listing/Enumeration Pattern This pattern gives information on a topic by listing or step by step and is used in most college textbooks. Clue Words: a second feature also one, two, three in addition
Mixed Patterns Thought patterns are often combined. Look for patterns as you read or take notes. Academic thought patterns are useful in organizing and answering essay questions and writing term papers.
Other Commonly Used Thought Patterns Statement and Clarification Summary Generalization and Example Addition