In order to write coherent essays, students need to learn about the basic functions of various paragraphs in college writing. Most paragraphs will have several functions to fulfill at a time and it is important to know under what circumstances their functions can be conjoined, if at all. The following list contains explanations regarding content and style of different paragraphs as well as examples.
Narration paragraphs are most frequently used in fiction and personal statements. As such, they will contain all necessary components of action development: protagonist, setting, goal, obstacle, climax and resolution. Writing a narration paragraph requires, consequently, accounting for sequential order of events and chronology. There are many descriptive elements included in the body of a narration paragraph but, if composed correctly, the paragraph will prioritize action over description.
Often times, this kind of a paragraph is used as a component of other types of writing. It’s written in order to clarify or explain problems and phenomena. Writing exposition paragraphs requires strict focus on evidence and objective language. It can contain elements of comparison and contrast, or cause and effect writing as both facilitate accurate exposition of the subject-matter.
Definition paragraphs are used in order to explain the meaning, origin and function of things. They are used both in academic writing and fiction. To write a definition paragraph, writers should concentrate on the role of its subject in the context of the essay and account for evidence as well as examples accordingly.
Writing classification paragraphs requires a more varied approach. It should be concentrated on defining as well as making relevant comparisons. In other words, writers should classify the subject of the paragraph in a specific context providing comparisons to corresponding ideas. Classification can be performed on multiple levels – semantic (comparing different meanings of things), linguistic (using vocabulary to show contrast), and more.
Preferably, description paragraphs should concentrate on action (verbs), rather than sensations or impressions (adverbs and adjectives), which ensures that the tone remains objective and authoritative. Description paragraphs should be detailed, clear, and render the represented reality chronologically.
It, usually, takes the form of a how-to paragraph which guides readers through a process or action to be performed. It’s very concise and uses formal, non-descriptive vocabulary. It should be written in chronological order accounting for subsequent actions or events.
Persuasion Paragraph
Persuasion paragraphs require exhortatory and dynamic language. They are aimed at persuading the reader into taking a particular action or adopting a certain point of view. They should be devoid of descriptive content and rely on the imperative mode instead.
Further reading:
How to Write Paragraphs - tips on writing paragraphs and sample paragraphs of all types.
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