Objectives fi nding a • basis for classifi cation

PART 4
CREATING EFFECTIVE PARAGRAPHS
488
Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part.

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WRITING A CLASSIFICATION PARAGRAPH 
USING A STEP-BY-STEP APPROACH
Mastering any skill, including writing, requires a disciplined attitude. One way to 
master the skill of creating a piece of writing is to take a step-by-step approach, 
focusing on one issue at a time. This approach results in a minimum of stress. Another 
advantage is that the writer does not miss important points or misunderstand any 
part of the process. Of course, there are other ways to build effective classifi cation 
paragraphs, but here is one logical method you can use that will always achieve good 
results.
3. 
Lunches
4. 
Music
5. 
Mail
ACHIEVING COHERENCE
In a paragraph or essay that uses classifi cation to develop the ideas, certain terms 
are almost always to be found. These terms are used to signal that the writer is 
transitioning from one category to the next. Often an actual number will come before 
the term, such as 
the fi rst group, the second group,
and 
the third group.
Terms That Signal Classifi cation
aspects groups qualities
areas kinds sorts
brands levels systems
categories parts 
traits
forms principles 
types
features
Step-by-Step Approach to Writing
a Classifi cation Paragraph
1. 
After you have selected a topic, decide on the basis for your classifi cation.
2. 
Determine the categories for your classifi cation. Give each category an 
identifying title or name. Be as creative as possible. You may want to take 
a humorous tone. Remember, no item should belong in more than one 
group, and your classifi cation should be complete.
(continued on next page)
CHAPTER 25
DEVELOPING PARAGRAPHS: CLASSIFICATION 
489
Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning. All Rights Reserved. May not be copied, scanned, or duplicated, in whole or in part.

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Writing a Classifi cation Paragraph Using a Step-by-Step Approach
The following exercise will guide you through the construction of a classifi cation 
paragraph. Start with the suggested topic. Use the seven steps to help you 
work through the stages of the writing process.
Topic: 
Games I have played
1. What is the basis for your classifi cation?
 
2. What are the categories for your classifi cation? Give each category a 
name.
a.
b.
c.
d.
3. Write your topic sentence. (Use one of the classifi cation terms given on 
page 489.)