Teaching your child the purpose and structure of different types of paragraphs helps her develop her own internal structure for writing. 

 The Classification Paragraph identifies the categories of a specific object or idea.  Making a list is an initial step in deciding on what basis to classify.  Once the basis of classification has been established, several examples of each can be selected to include in the paragraph.  A good classification paragraph might recognize the different types of chocolate.  Good transition words include: the first, the second, another kind, and the best.

 The Enumerative Paragraph is useful for relating a series of facts or details related to a specific topic.  It can be useful in describing or listing features or uses of a particular object.  A good paragraph of this type might list features of a good student, or benefits of a good exercise program.  Good transition words include: in addition, furthermore, besides, likewise, to illustrate, for example, such as, and finally.

The Reason Paragraph tells the reader why: a good reason paragraph might be titled “Why I Like Chocolate.” Each reason should be followed by a set of descriptive details and examples.  Reasons are best placed in order from least to most important.  Good transition words include: one reason, another reason, the final reason, the most important reason, therefore, consequently, and as a result

 The Descriptive Paragraph can be precise, based on facts (characteristics, physical features), or can be based on opinions.  The student can make lists of adjectives and phrases that describe the sounds, sights, tastes, and smells of the object being described.  Transition words include: one characteristic, one descriptor, can be described as, can be defined as, and another method.

The Problem-Solution Paragraph states a problem in the topic sentence, and then provides possible solutions.  The student can describe a problem at the beginning of the paragraph and the supporting sentences would provide possible methods to solve the problem.  The paragraph ending may or may not offer the writer’s choice for the best possible solution.  Good transition words include: one possible solution to this problem, in addition, currently, as a result, last and most important. 

 The Cause and Effect Paragraph describes the causes of a specific outcome. Students can be taught to detail a particular incidence or situation in the initial sentence(s) of the paragraph.  They then can describe the events or reasons why this current situation happened.  Good transition words include: to begin with, because, consequently, for this reason, thus, and for one thing. 

The Compare and Contrast Paragraph involves two specific tasks. When asked to compare objects, students should present information that details how they are alike.  Transition words might include: both, also, too, share, have in common.  On the other hand, contrast involves explaining how the objects are different.  Good transition words include: in contrast, unlike, instead of, but, and another difference. 

Refer to these descriptors as often as necessary to help your child develop a structured approach to writing. 

 © 2010, flexiture, monte w. davenport, ph.d.