Making Generalizations Created by: D. Baker©2009

What is a generalization? A generalization is a statement we can make about a group of people or things that have something in common. For example we can make the generalization that people who eat at McDonald’s generally like their food.

Here are some words to look out for when making generalizations!

For Example Consider this generalization – Everyone loves chocolate! It would be easy to prove that there are some people who do not like chocolate. Raise your hand if you like chocolate!

Let’s make some generalizations! My best friend is my dog, Rufus. The minute I get off the bus at the end of the day, he is waiting to greet me with a big sloppy kiss. When there is no one else to play with, I can count on Rufus to run and play with me. What generalization can we make? Dogs make good playmates!

I have been dreaming of this day for months. My family and I are going to Disney World for spring break. There are so many things to see at Disney World. There are rides to go on, shows to see, great food to eat, and autographs to get. There is even a water park at the resort we are staying at. Look out Mickey Mouse, here I come! What generalization can we make? Disney world is a fun place to take a vacation!

When we finally arrived at Six Flags theme park, there was a line of cars waiting to get into the parking lot. Once we finally parked our car, there was a long line of people waiting at the gate to purchase tickets. After we bought our tickets, we walked to the first ride only to find another long line. What generalization can we make? Theme parks are popular places and are often crowded.

Last night our neighbors, Mr. & Mrs. Johnson, had a terrible fire in their house. They lost everything! This morning the neighbors down the street offered them a place to stay. Then Mr. & Mrs. Jones brought them some clothes for their children. Another family even gave them a car to drive until they could buy another one. What generalization can we make? There are very caring people in this neighborhood.

On Thanksgiving day, my whole family went to my Aunt Sara’s house. On Memorial Day, we had everyone over for a barbecue, and on the 4 th of July we had a family reunion at the park. What generalization can we make? Families like to get together on the holidays.

Don’t Forget! Generalizations make a broad statement about people or things that have something in common. Generalizations can be proven by facts. Be careful of generalizations that include the words all, none, always, never, everybody, and nobody!

THE END!