Objectives fi nding a • basis for classifi cation

Answers will vary. 
See Instructor’s 
Resource Manual 
for an example of 
how movies might be 
classifi ed.
PART 4
CREATING EFFECTIVE PARAGRAPHS
486
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MAKING DISTINCT CATEGORIES
To classify items properly, we must fi nd 
distinct categories
into which these items 
will fi t. Each item must belong to only one category. For example, classifying 
motorcycles into three categories—imported motorcycles, U.S.-made motorcycles, 
and used motorcycles—would not be an effective use of classifi cation because an 
imported
motorcycle or a U.S.-made motorcycle could also be a 
used
motorcycle. 
These categories would, therefore, not be distinct.
Making Distinct Categories
For each of the following topics, fi rst choose a basis for classifi cation. Then 
divide the topic into as many distinct categories as you think the classifi cation 
requires. Write your answers on the lines provided.
Keep in mind that, when you divide your topic, each item must belong to only 
one category. For example, if you were to classify cars by type, you would not 
want to make 
sports cars
and 
imported cars
two of your categories because 
several kinds of sports cars are also imported cars.
1.
Dogs
Basis of Classifi cation:
Distinct categories:
2.
Television commercials
Basis of Classifi cation: 
Distinct categories:
3.
College sports
Basis of Classifi cation:
Distinct categories:
4.
Doctors
Basis of Classifi cation:
Distinct categories:
EXERCISE 
2