Division or Classification

GUIDELINES
1. Applied to one subject–only one thing can be divided at a time
2. Division consistent with writer/s purpose Often parts perhaps not considered by the reader
3. Division complete in serving writer/s purpose
4. Subject is subdivided as far as needed to make a point
5. Division that follows logical order

Principles of Classification—A more systematic way of organizing and arranging data, related things sorted into various categories
finding features that link elements together
finding features that distinguish one element from another
ability to compare and contrast
Good classification system helps investigator (writer) to see/find relationships not apparent earlier and gives data meaning
In doing research we should have ability to play with (arrange/rearrange) data
GUIDELINES
1. Applied to a plural subject
2. Basis of classification consistent with writer’s purpose
3. Classification complete according to basis
4. Logical order given to categories
5. Categories don’t overlap
For example—
CANNING PEACHES
FIRM
SOFT
ROTTEN
SLEEPING HABITS OF PEOPLE
LATE SLEEPER
MID-MORNING SLEEPERS
EARLY RISERS

Another example: Suppose you would be trying to explain to a foreigner the education system in the US. You might use Division by dividing the system by ages:
Education
Elementary
Middle School or Jr. High
High School
College

Or you might want to explain a University Colleges (plural education) by classification and sorting areas of study (or even sort types of degrees, an after thought after publishing):
University
Liberal Arts
Education
Business

Read Chapter 15, Division-Classification p. 353-354, the darker green highlighted box, Developing an Essay with Emphasis on Division-Classification pp 358-359, Writing an Essay with Emphasis on Division-Classification pp.366-367, and Checklist p. 369. You are totally invited to read any of the examples to get a better idea of this pattern.

In Basics of Essays you read that: Expository writing uses patterns of writing which provide information and explain a particular subject that you think your reader should know and why it is important to know. For this essay you will use the pattern, Division or Classification. You also read about Exemplification in Basics of Essays that says to use support: examples, details etc., so do not forget to use support.

It will take some thought as to how you will proceed.

Assignment: You get to choose your subject and decide if division or classification would be best to use for explaining your topic. Using the Division or Classification write an essay. It is due Oct 20, 2022.

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