Methods of Development in Essay Writing

Methods of Development (MOD)

Organization patterns that help to sort information and shape paragraphs and essays.

Narrative Essay

The MOD of a narrative essay is narration.

Characteristics of narration

Tells a story or recounts an experience, often uses first person, may be written in chronological order or as an informative narrative, may include parts of a story (character, plot, setting, suspense, climax, etc.), often anecdotal and personal which readers can relate to.

Descriptive Essay

The MOD of a descriptive essay is description.

Characteristics of description

Describes a person, place, event, feeling, or thing; appeals to the senses; connects with the reader on an emotional level; leaves a clear, dominant impression; may be objective or subjective; provides vivid detail and clear image; uses vivid language.

Expository Essay

There are 6 MOD's for expository essays.

Characteristics of exposition

Writing to explain (developed through six different methods), includes a clear thesis statement, includes evidence to support ideas, transitions are clear and logical, used to provide additional information or clarification on a topic.

Process Analysis

Expository writing that involves 'how to' writing, presents steps in logical or sequential order, explains how something works and why, provides instructions for doing something.

Example of Process Analysis

Finding a good used car involves researching different models, knowing where to find good vehicles, and getting a thorough mechanical inspection.

Key Transitional Words for Process Analysis

First, Second, Third, Finally, Next, After.

Cause and Effect

Explores the causes and/or effects of an action, event, or decision.

Characteristics of Cause and Effect

Causes are the reason(s) why an action or event happened; effects show the result(s) of some action or event.

Key Transitional Words for Cause and Effect

If/then, Because, As a result, Thus, Therefore, Cause, Effect.

Comparison and Contrast

Shows similarities and differences.

Key Transitional Words for Comparison and Contrast

Like/Unlike, Similar/Dissimilar, However, But, On the other hand, In contrast, On the contrary, Although.

Classification and Division

Divides a topic into types, groups, or categories.

Classification Example

Types of dogs: Newfoundland, Havanese, Pugs, Pitbulls, German Shepherds, etc.

Division Example

The 'ideal vacation' divided by - destination, accommodations, cost, etc.

Key Transitional Words for Classification and Division

Group, Section, Definition, Division, Classification.

Example and Illustration

Uses examples to support the main point the author is making about their topic (the thesis).

Characteristics of Example and Illustration

Backs up the points made with specific examples or situations that illustrate or provide evidence for the topic sentence or thesis; an illustration is a story, analogy, or an example used to help explain or make something clear.

Key Transitional Words for Example and Illustration

for example, for instance, for one thing, as an illustration, illustrated with, as an example, in this case.

Definition

Writing that explains what a term, idea, topic, or subject means or does.

Example of Definition

The definition of good manners is the art of making people feel at ease.

Example of Definition (Person)

Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister, is a Canadian.