The Classification Essay Strategies for Writing Responses to

The Classification Essay Strategies for Writing Responses to “What Kind of? ” Essays

Classification = Division n Writing a classification essay means dividing members of a group. n The members in a class must share similar characteristics n When classifying, you need a principle of classification.

The Basis of Division n For example, we can divide the category “cell phones” into the following: – Sizes 1. 2. 3. Small sized cell phones Average sized cell phones Large sized cell phones

Don’t Mix Principles! n It’s confusing to have overlapping bases for classification. – For example, if you’re characterizing cell phones by size, don’t include classes such as “expensive” or “nice looking. ” – Stay within the three categories you are classifying!

Find the out-of-place item 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Autos: SUV, pickup, economy Transport: land, train, air, water Rivers: dangerous, short, wide Drugs: uppers, illegal, downers Colleges: private, famous, public Courses: year-long, half-term, math Housing: rooms, cheap, apartments

Types of Classification n Two of the most common types of classification are 1. By degree, from lower to higher 2. By chronology, in time periods

Classifying by Degree n To classify on the basis of degree means to judge value. – Good (C grades are good) – Better (B grades are better) – Best (A grades are best)

Classifying by Degree n Another way to classify on the basis of degree would be as follows: – Small (small size cars) – Medium (medium size cars) – Large (large size cars)

Classifying by Degree n An example of how to classify cell phones based on degree: – Good (Motorola) – Better (Sony) – Best (Nokia)

Classifying by Degree n Another example of how to classify cell phones based on degree: – Cheap (Cell phones without camera) – Affordable (Cell phones with camera) – Expensive (Cell phones with camera & MP 3 Player)

Dividing by Chronology n You also can write classifications by time periods – For example, history can be divided as 1. 2. 3. Ancient Middle Ages Modern

Dividing by Chronology n Another example of classification by time period: 1. 2. 3. Past (past forms of travel) Present (present forms of travel) Future (future forms of travel)

Complete the Categories n n When you’re classifying, don’t leave anyone or anything out. Look for obvious missing elements. – Say the writing prompt is “What kind of students are there in your math class? ” – You answer: “Fast and slow learners. ” – But what about the average learners? – After all, you need three categories!

Variations within a class n Rarely will everyone or everything fit in perfectly in your categories. n Then admit that there are variations and complications in the categories. – Although all cell phones could be classified as being cheap or expensive, you must still find a middle point such as “affordable” cell phones.

Use Parallel Construction n Organize your thesis statement with parallelism: n “Most people respond in one of three ways: eagerly, indifferently, or reluctantly. ” n Notice that each categorical word is in the same grammar form: adverbs. n Don’t mix and match the terminology!

Types in Classification n What kind of classification is this? n “Teachers can be classified in three different ways; conservatively, fashionably, or casually. ” n The teachers here can be classified according to ________?

Types in Classification n What kind of classification is this? n “Cell Phones can be classified in three different ways; cheap, affordable, or expensive. ” n The cell phones here can be classified according to ________?