The document discusses the concept of classification and provides instructions for writing a classification paragraph. It explains that classification involves dividing a topic into categories based on a clear basis or principle. The document then outlines the steps for writing a classification paragraph, including determining a topic and basis, developing three categories, outlining with details, drafting and revising the paragraph, and proofreading. Examples are provided to illustrate key points around choosing a basis and categories.

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2. CHAPTER 7: CLASSIFICATION
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3. CHAPTER OUTLINE AND LEARNING OBJECTIVES
In this chapter, you will learn to:
 determine a clear basis for classifying a topic,
 develop at least three basis-related categories,
and
 write a classification paragraph by devising key
supporting details for each category.
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4. WHAT IS CLASSIFICATION?
 When you classify, you divide something into different
categories according to some basis.
 Hints for Writing a Classification Paragraph
1. Divide your subject into three or more categories
or types.
2. Pick one basis for classification and stick with it.
3. Be creative in your classification.
4. Have a reason for your classification.
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5. WRITING THE CLASSIFICATION PARAGRAPH IN STEPS
 PrewritingClassification—how to generate and develop
ideas for your classification paragraph
 Planning Classification—how to organize your ideas for
your classification paragraph
 Drafting and Revising Classification—how to create,
revise, and edit rough drafts of your classification
paragraph
 Proofreading Classification—how to proofread and
make one final check of your classification paragraph
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6. PREWRITING A CLASSIFICATION
 First, pick a topic and then choose a basis for your
classification.
 Brainstorming a Basis for Classification
 Brainstorm
 Survey the list
 Select the basis for classification
 Come up with at least three categories
 Matching the Points Within the Categories
 Writing a Topic Sentence for a Classification Paragraph
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7. PLANNING CLASSIFICATION
 Effective Order in Classifying
 Afteryou have a topic sentence and a list of details,
create an outline.
 Checklist for Revising the Classification Outline
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8. DRAFTING AND REVISING CLASSIFICATION
 Transform your outline into a first draft by writing the
topic sentence and the details in paragraph form.
 Transitions in Classification
 Checklist for Revising the Draft of a Classification
Paragraph
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9. PROOFREADING CLASSIFICATION
 Check for errors in spelling, grammar, and
punctuation.
 Lines of Detail: A Walk-Through Assignment
 Topics for Writing a Classification Paragraph
 Topics for Critical Thinking and Writing
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10. WHAT IS CLASSIFICATION?
A. Explains how to do something.
B. Tells a story.
C. Shows a reader what a person, place, thing, or situation is
like.
D. Divides something into different categories according to
some basis.
Copyright © 2012 by Pearson Education, Inc.

11. WHAT IS CLASSIFICATION?
A. Explains how to do something.
B. Tells a story.
C. Shows a reader what a person, place, thing, or situation is
like.
D. Divides something into different categories according to
some basis.
write a classification paragraph by devising key
supporting details for each category.
Copyright © 2012 by Pearson Education, Inc.

12. WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING IS AN EXAMPLE OF A BASIS FOR A
CLASSIFICATION PARAGRAPH ABOUT YOUR CLASSMATES?
A. How well you know your classmates.
B. Classmates that you know well.
C. Classmates that you know fairly well.
D. Classmates that you don’t know well at all.
Copyright © 2012 by Pearson Education, Inc.

13. WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING IS AN EXAMPLE OF A BASIS FOR A
CLASSIFICATION PARAGRAPH ABOUT YOUR CLASSMATES?
A. How well you know your classmates
B. Classmates that you know well.
C. Classmates that you know fairly well.
D. Classmates that you don’t know well at all.
Determine a clear basis for classifying a topic
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14. WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING IS AN EXAMPLE OF THREE BASIS-
RELATED CATEGORIES FOR A CLASSIFICATION PARAGRAPH ?
A. Cheap and expensive players
B. Elementary, middle, and high school teachers
C. Age
D. Cheese, pepperoni, and medium pizzas
Copyright © 2012 by Pearson Education, Inc.

15. WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING IS AN EXAMPLE OF THREE BASIS-
RELATED CATEGORIES FOR A CLASSIFICATION PARAGRAPH ?
A. Cheap and expensive players
B. Elementary, middle, and high school teachers
C. Age
D. Cheese, pepperoni and medium pizzas
develop at least three basis-related categories
Copyright © 2012 by Pearson Education, Inc.