Patterns of Organization

Where to Begin: Patterns of Organization

Writers use patterns of organization to arrange supporting details.

Listing

Provides a list of details, such as examples or facts

Comparison

Tells how two things are similar and different

Time order

Explains a process or tells a story

Cause and effect

Shows how one thing causes something else

You Try. Select the correct pattern of organization.

Living in the countryside is different than living in the city. For example, the city offers an exciting nightlife with many things to do. On the other hand, country life may be slow and dull. The countryside has plenty of fresh air, whereas the city is more polluted. Also, living in the city is expensive; on the other hand, the countryside is cheaper. Which place would you rather live?

Gold has been valuable for thousands of years. First, it is a beautiful metal. It has a shiny yellow color that does not tarnish. Second, gold is rare. Gold is many times rarer than diamonds. Third, gold has many uses, such as in dentistry, industry, and computers. Finally, many people like to wear gold as a show of love or wealth.

Lack of sleep, or sleep deprivation, has many harmful outcomes. For example, getting fewer than 6-7 hours of sleep a night has been found to increase blood pressure and weight gain. Also, not getting enough sleep reduces memory, concentration, and balance. Not sleeping enough has been linked to numerous diseases and overall poor health.

The first thing I do in the morning is exercise. Then I have coffee and a light breakfast. Next, I go to work. On the way to work I listen to music. Then I spend about eight hours working. After work, I visit some friends. At the end of the long day I get ready to do it all over again.