Division Classification English Composition I Professor Beamen Division

Division/ Classification English Composition I Professor Beamen

Division/ Classification n A logical way of thinking that allows us to make sense of a complex world. n Will you break down a topic into parts or group similar items together in one category? Division: One into Many (What are its parts or characteristics? ) Classification: Many into One (What groups or categories can it be sorted into? )

General Examples n For an anatomy class, you are asked to study the structure and parts of the human ear by identifying the function of each part. n As part of a business report, you are asked to consider how debt liability differs for three types of businesses (proprietorship, partnership, and a corporation). n As a facilities planner, you are asked to conduct a feasibility study of several new sites. You begin by sorting the sites into three categories: within state, out of state, and out of country.

Specific Examples n In an essay on divorce using division/ classification: n n Divide into the psychological tasks children have to go through Classify before, during, and after divorce n In an essay about quitting smoking: n n Divide into types of smokers (smokers, non-smokers, and those who have quit). Classify ex-smokers into the four emotional states cessation of smoking can cause: n n Zealot (thinks smoking ought to be punished by law) Evangelist (preaches to the unconvinced, bullies them into quitting) Elect (sees themselves as superior) Serene (thinks that quitting ought to be the goal of all smokers who have matured into a healthy sense of self

Sample Thesis Statements n Skiers can be divided into distinct categories—for one’s own entertainment and for the purpose of finding appropriate skiing partners. n Most people consider videos a form of entertainment; however, videos can also serve educational, commercial, and political functions. n The Grand Canyon is divided into two distinct geographical areas, the North Rim and the South Rim; each offers different views, facilities, and climactic conditions. n Everyone has talents or gifts in many areas, and when people play to their strongest suits, the most effective learning usually occurs. (Multiple Intelligences)

Class Assignment (do this now): : Put yourself in the shoes of a critic. You are critiquing an entertainment genre: books, movies, TV shows, advertisements, music, etc. Choose a genre and break down its major components. As a critic, you have to decide whether the genre you are discussing is effective or ineffective in some way: come up with a sample thesis statement based on the genre you chose. Ex: movies: categorize so that it would be easier for an indecisive person to choose. Hand in when completed