Patterns of Development in Writing

(Comparison & Contrast, Cause & Effect, Problem & Solution, Persuasion)
A pattern of development in writing refers to the particular strategy writers use develop
ideas.
COMPARISON & CONTRAST

Introduction:
Comparison and contrast are broad terms which indicate you are to judge two people or
objects or institutions or whatever against a set of principles.
A comparison and contrast essay focuses on how two items or texts are similar,
different, or similar in some ways and different in others.
You can compare and contrast any number of items including theories, events, books, or
people.

Further Discussion

In your career as a student, youll encounter many different kinds of writing assignments, each
with its own requirements. One of the most common is the comparison/contrast essay, in which
you focus on the ways in which certain things or ideasusually two of themare similar to (this
is the comparison) and/or different from (this is the contrast) one another. By assigning such
essays, your instructors are encouraging you to make connections between texts or ideas, engage
in critical thinking, and go beyond mere description or summary to generate interesting analysis:
when you reflect on similarities and differences, you gain a deeper understanding of the items
you are comparing, their relationship to each other, and what is most important about them.

In a comparison/contrast essay, a writer must do the following:

Identify and explain three or more key points that two or more subjects have in
common.
Show the similarities and differences between these points.
Develop a thesis, indicating his or her position regarding the two subjects. The
thesis may indicate that one subject is stronger than the other and that both
subjects have
strengths, or that both subjects possess noteworthy flaws.

There are two methods for organizing a comparison/contrast paragraph: The point-by-
point method and the block method.
 Point-by-Point Method

The Point-by-Point method alternates arguments about the two items (A and B) that you are
comparing and/or contrasting. The pattern is as follows:
o Point 1 - discuss A
o Point 1 - discuss B
o Discussion about overall links between A and B

o Point 2 discuss A
o Point 2 - discuss B
o Discussion about overall links between A and B
o Etc.

This method is often easier for a reader to follow because similarities and differences are more
obvious when placed next to each other. For this reason, writers generally use this method for
longer essays.
Please Note: This method, like the Block method, only offers an outline for the body of an
essay. Remember, you also need to include an effective introduction and conclusion.

Point-by-Point Method Outline Example:

Thesis: John Stewart Mill and Michael Bakunin both support three of the basic
principles of democracy (government by the people, tolerance, and
equality); however, they support them to different degrees and for
different reasons.

Point 1
Paragraph 1: Mill believes that the majority makes moral decisions.
Paragraph 2: Bakunin believes that public opinion should be the basis of societys decisions,
which is slightly different than Mills understanding of a moral majority.

Point 2
Paragraph 3: Mill argues that complete open-mindedness always
benefits society.
Paragraph 4: Unlike Mill, Bakunin allows freedom of expression to
be limited by public opinion.
POINT 3
Paragraph 5: Mill claims that we are all equal because mere
accident determines what worldview we are born into.
Paragraph 6: As with Mill, Bakunin extends equality to all and
embraces diversity.

Block Method

The Block Method presents all arguments related to A, and then compares and/or contrasts
them to all arguments related to B. This style is a little bit more difficult to use because there is
so much space between points about A and points about B; however, it can be useful for shorter
assignments. The pattern is as follows:

o Point 1 about A
o Point 2 about A
o Etc.

o Point 1 about B (with discussion about connections to A)

o Point 2 about B (with discussion about connections to A)
o Etc.

Pointer: Make sure to present your points in the same order for A and B! There are a couple of
common problems that students run into using this method:

o A lot of students end up simply listing everything about A and then everything about B
without actually making connections between them.
o Students may include the connections in one paragraph towards the end of the essay.
Since your whole essay is supposed to make these connections, you wont be completing
the assignment if you dont include the comparisons throughout. To avoid these problems
with this structure, make sure to include lots of transitional statements when discussing
B, such as In the same way or In contrast to. This will help your reader to remember
information about A, and to understand how A and B are related to each other.
Block Method Outline Example:

Thesis: Same as in Point-by-Point Method Outline.

Part 1
Point 1: Mill believes that the majority makes moral decisions.
Point 2: Mill argues that complete open-mindedness always benefits society.
Point 3: Mill claims that we are all equal because mere accident determines what worldview we
are born into.

Part 2
Point 1: Bakunin believes that public opinion should be the basis of societys decisions, which is
slightly different than Mills understanding of a moral majority.
Point 2: Unlike Mill, Bakunin allows freedom of expression to be limited by public opinion.
Point 3: As with Mill, Bakunin extends equality to all and embraces diversity.

Essay Outline

Point by point Method Outline

I. Introduction
A. Briefly introduce the significance of subject matter
B. Thesis Statement

(Example: There are benefits to shopping at both Whole Foods and Safeway, but
Whole Foods is ultimately the better grocery store because it offers more
environmentally friendly products, organic produce, and healthy alternatives to
traditional medicine.)

II. Body
A. Point 1
a. Subject A
b. Subject B

(Example: Whole Foods offers a wide selection of environmentally friendly

products, unlike Safeway whose cleaning products and packaging are not
biodegradable and contain harmful chemicals that pollute our environment.)

B. Point 2
a. Subject A
 b. Subject B

(Example: While Whole Foods has a wide selection of organic produce, the
majority of Safeways produce is grown with pesticides and hormones.)

C. Point 3
a. Subject A
b. Subject B

(Example: Whole Foods has a wider availability of healthy alternatives to

medications than Safeway, which has a large selection of over-the-counter
drugs in addition to a pharmacy that sells medications manufactured by
pharmaceutical companies.)

III. Conclusion
A. Restate thesis
B. Summarize how you prove your argument

(Example: With its wholesome products, Whole Foods is surely a healthier place to
shop than Safeway.)

Sample Essay

The Abortion Issue

One of the most divisive issues in America is the controversy surrounding

abortion. Currently, abortion is legal in America, and many people believe that it should remain
legal. These people, pro-choice activists, believe that it is the women's right to choose whether or
not to give birth. However, there are many groups who are lobbying Congress to pass laws that
would make abortion illegal. These people are called the pro-life activists.

Supporters of both pro-life and pro-choice refer to religion as support for their side of the
argument. Pro-life supporters claim that abortion is murder, and is therefore against God's will.
However, pro-choice defenders argue that abortion is not murder since the fetus is not yet a fully
formed human. Therefore, abortion would not be a defiance against God.

Another main point of the argument is over the woman's personal rights, versus the rights
of the unborn child. Pro-choice activists maintain that regardless of the individual circumstances,
women should have the right to choose whether or not to abort. The pregnancy and labor will
affect only the woman's body, therefore it should be the woman's decision. Pro-life supporters,
on the other hand, believe that the unborn child has the right to life, and that abortion unlawfully
takes away that right.

If we take away the womans right to choose, will we begin limiting her other rights also?
Or, if we keep abortion legal, are we devaluing human life? There is no easy answer to these
questions. Both sides present strong, logical arguments. Though it is a very personal decision, the
fate of abortion rights will have to be left for the Supreme Court to decide.

Block Method Outline

I. Introduction
A. Briefly introduce the significance of subject matter
B. Thesis Statement

(Example: There are benefits to shopping at both Whole Foods and Safeway, but
Whole Foods is ultimately the better grocery store because it offers more
environmentally friendly products, organic produce, and healthy alternatives to
traditional medicine.)

II. Body
A. Subject A
a. Point 1 (Example: Whole Foods offers a wide selection of environmentally
friendly products.)
b. Point 2 (Example: Whole Foods has a wide selection of organic produce.)
c. Point 3 (Example: Whole Foods has a wider availability of healthy
alternatives to medications.)
d. Transition (Example: Safeway does not offer very many discuss point # 1 of
the second subject, environmentally friendly products. Most of the providing
similarities and differences with cleaning products and packaging sold by
point #1 of the first subject. Safeway are not biodegradable and contain
harmful chemicals that pollute our environment.)

B. Subject B
a. Point 1 (Example: Safeway does not have as wide a selection of organic
produce as Whole Foods. Instead, the majority of its produce is grown with
pesticides and hormones.)
b. Point 2 (Example: Safeway offers very few natural remedies. Instead,
Safeway has a large selection of over-the-counter drugs in addition to a
pharmacy that sells medications manufactured by pharmaceutical companies.)
c. Point 3
 III. Conclusion
A. Restate thesis
B. Summarize how you prove your argument

(Example: With its wholesome products, Whole Foods is surely a healthier place to
shop than Safeway.)

Sample Essay

The Abortion Issue

One of the most divisive issues in America is the controversy surrounding

abortion. Currently, abortion is legal in America, and many people believe that it should remain
legal. These people, pro-choice activists, believe that it is the women's right to choose whether or
not to give birth. However, there are many groups who are lobbying Congress to pass laws that
would make abortion illegal. These people are called the pro-life activists.

Abortion is a choice that should be decided by each individual, argues the pro-choice
activist. Abortion is not murder since the fetus is not yet fully human, therefore, it is not in
defiance against God. Regardless of the reason for the abortion, it should be the womans choice
because it is her body. While adoption is an option some women chose, many women do not
want to suffer the physical and emotional trauma of pregnancy and labor only to give up a child.
Therefore, laws should remain in effect that protect a woman's right to choose.

Abortion is an abomination, argues the pro-life activist. It makes no sense for a woman to
murder a human being not even born. The bible says, "Thou shalt not kill," and it does not
discriminate between different stages of life. A fetus is the beginning of life. Therefore, abortion
is murder, and is in direct defiance of God's will. Regardless of the mother's life situation (many
women who abort are poor, young, or drug users), the value of a human life cannot be
measured. Therefore, laws should be passed to outlaw abortion. After all, there are plenty of
couples who are willing to adopt an unwanted child.

If we take away the womans right to choose, will we begin limiting her other rights also?
Or, if we keep abortion legal, are we devaluing human life? There is no easy answer to these
questions. Both sides present strong, logical arguments. Though it is a very personal decision, the
fate of abortion rights will have to be left for the Supreme Court to decide.
CAUSE & EFFECT
Introduction

explains the reasons (causes) why something happened

describes the results (effects) of an event, action, or condition

Further Discussion

There are many times when you are asked to examine a cause and effect relationship. When we
visit a doctor, the doctor usually questions us carefully to determine the cause of our
illness. Causes are the reasons that something happened; the causes of pollution, divorce, heart
disease, anorexia, etc., can be identified and presented so that the reader gains a better
knowledge of how the causes brought about certain results. Similarly, when we think of effects,
we often think of benefits or advantages such as the benefits of exercise or the advantages of
self-employment. Or we could look at the negative effects of a cause such as divorce,
alcoholism, or global warming.

Generally, in a paragraph or short essay, it is better to deal with either causes or effects. Before
you start writing, you should be clear on whether you will be dealing mostly with causes or
effects. We often examine causes so that we can learn how to prevent things from happening
again. Researchers look at causes of heart disease so that they can educate people on how to
avoid behaviors such as high fat diets and sedentary lifestyles that contribute to heart
disease. We may focus on effects to convince someone that something becoming a vegetarian
for example is a good idea because of the health benefits.

In a paragraph focusing on effect you should clearly indicate the cause an earthquake, for
example and then spend the rest of the paragraph detailing and explaining the specific effects.
This might include damage to buildings, injuries to people, and mass psychological trauma. In a
paragraph focusing on cause, state the effect (or result) in your opening and then go on to explain
why this result came about. For example, in a paragraph on divorce or marriage breakdown you
might look at causes such as incompatibility, infidelity, substance abuse, and neglect among
others.

Sample Cause and Effect Paragraph:

Focus on the Cause

Why Earthquakes Occur?

Earthquakes are brought on by faulting, a sudden horizontal or vertical movement of rock

along a crack (break) surface. The surface of the Earth is in constant moderate movement. This is
plate tectonics- - the movement of huge inflexible plates at the surface of the Earth in light of
stream of shake inside the Earth. The plates cover the whole surface of the globe. Since they are
all moving they rub against each other in a few spots (like the San Andreas fault in California),
sink underneath each other in others (like the Peru-Chile Trench along the western boarder of
South America), or spread separated from each other (like the Mid-Atlantic Edge). At such
places the movement isn't smooth- - the plates are stuck together at the edges however whatever
remains of every plate is keeping on moving, so the rocks along the edges are bended (what we
call "strain"). As the movement continues, the strain develops to the point where the rock can't
withstand any more bending. Wsith a lurch, the rock breaks and the two sides move. An
earthquake is the shaking that radiates out from the breaking rock.

Sample Cause and Effect Paragraph:

Focus on the Effects

Air Pollutions impact to our World

Air pollution comes about for the most part from the deficient ignition of a few fuels, for
example, coal, petrol and wood. Air Pollution is a destructive substance to the air bringing about
harm to the earth, human wellbeing, and quality of life. One of many types of air pollution
happens inside homes, schools, workplaces, in urban communities, across continents and even all
around. Air pollution causes harm to nature. Air contamination cause exhaustion of the ozone
layer, which permits a more amount measure of ultraviolet rays to earth, that can be hurtful for
people. Some air toxins come back to earth as corrosive rain , which it can erode statues and
structures, harm crops, woodlands, makes lakes, and streams unsuitable for fish and other plant
and creature life .Smog is another outcome from air poison which is as mist that is destructive to
people. A dangerous atmo can likewise be a cause via air toxins, which makes the earth
temperatures increment. This impacts the entire earth as one, and prompting to a rise in
worldwide normal temperatures. Air pollution is changing the worlds environment, on the off
chance that we keep polluting the air we can have genuine outcomes that can change the earth
and health of people.

Essay Outline

Introduction The opening paragraph needs to do a few things:

1. Grab the reader's attention

2. Present your thesis statement
3. Lead the reader into the body of your essay
Body Each paragraph in the body should reflect a cause or an effect. So if your thesis
statement focuses on causes, write one paragraph about each cause. If your thesis
 focuses on effects, write one paragraph per effect.

In each paragraph, state your main idea and then back it up with your supporting
details and facts. Use transition sentences or signal words to connect your
sentences and improve your essays flow.
Conclusion A conclusion wraps up the essay. A strong conclusion should do one or more of
these things:

Summarize your three main ideas or arguments

Restate your thesis statement in a slightly different way
Include something that will keep the readers thinking or wondering about your
topic

. Sample essay (Cause-Effect)

Teenagers Committing Suicide

Suicide is the third driving reason for death in individuals aged 15-24, as indicated by the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Much alarming, is the way that suicide is the fourth
leading reason for death in individuals matured 10-14, as indicated by the CDC. Teenager
suicide is turning into a noteworthy issue in the United States today with guys making up 84% of
it. The suicide rate for young people is rising, and it is important to know why. Attempted
suicides really outnumbered suicides. Since guys regularly pick more savage strategies, they are
frequently more effective. In 2009, 6.3% of secondary school understudies attempted suicide. To
prevent suicide, it is vital to recognize what prompts to it, and how to treat the causes.

There are many risk factors that can add to the reason for suicide. There is so much
weight put on high school students, such as fitting in socially and performing scholastically, that
puts them under a huge amount of stress and stress. Real life changes and tormenting can
likewise put self-destructive considerations into high schools students minds. Real life changes
can incorporate guardians separating, moving, passing of somebody near the adolescent, or a
parent leaving because of military administrations. This places thoughts into the adolescents'
mind that they are distinctive. In any case, the most well-known component is sorrow. The
individuals who have gloom have sentiments of misery or tension. Here and there young people
think suicide is the best way to take care of their issues, when it unquestionably isn't. There could
be signs that a high school person is appearing, however you simply aren't getting them.

It is critical to know what some real signs that teen demonstrate include. The absolute
most normal signs to search for are they discuss passing/suicide, even in a kidding way, say that
no one care to him/her, has attempted suicide previously, lose enthusiasm for their most loved
exercises, or hints at despondency. Search and listen for these signs particularly after a
noteworthy unpleasant life occasion like a divorce, a separ ation, or a noteworthy family
struggle. What is hard about some of these signs is that some look like ordinary young person
behavior. That is the reason it is needed to look into and talk with them. Suicide is not the best
approach to dispose of issues. By attempted or effectively happened suicide, it will not only
harm you, but as well as others too.

PROBLEM & SOLUTION

Introduction:

A problem-solution essay is a type of argument.

In composition, problem-solution is a method for analyzing and writing about
a topic by identifying a problem and proposing one or more solutions.
The problem-solution paragraph states a problem in the topic sentence; supporting details
describe the problem, the causes, and the solutions.
Similar to the cause-effect pattern, this pattern/paragraph is exemplified by an interaction
between at least two factors, one presenting a problem and another providing a possible
solution or alternative to that problem.

Further discussion

The Pattern has two parts: a problem and a solution. Readers are presented with a problem (the
first sub-idea) and some facts or reasons why it is a problem. These are called supporting details.
This is followed by a solution for the problem (the second sub-idea). The closing statement or
conclusion highlights the connection between the problem and the solution.
The writer applies the following specific thinking strategies which are stated in the form of
questions.

What is the problem?

The problem statement becomes the main idea for the paragraph it presents the reader with
the purpose of the paragraph. The challenge for the writer is to state the problem as clearly and
precisely as possible.

Why is it a problem?
The readers need to be convinced about the problem. In other words, why is it a problem? If it is
not a problem as perceived by the readers, they probably will lose interest in what the writer has
to say and discontinue reading.

How can the problem be solved?

If the writer has convinced the reader about the problem, the reader may want to know about a
solution or whether no solution is available to the problem.
Sample Paragraph

Obesity is a major problem in the United States, made worse by most Americans lack of
physical activity. One solution would be to start work-place programs to make it easier for obese
people to exercise on a daily basis. This could be done at work or before or after a shift to ensure
broad participation. Such programs would benefit all employees, not just obese employees, and
create a healthier America.

In a problem-solution essay, you analyse a problem and propose a method for solving it.
The problem you chose to analyse should be one that offers some challenges but is still possible
to resolve. A problem-solution essay should have the following characteristics:

A problem that needs to be solved

A thesis statement that identifies the problem and points toward the solution
Identification of several possible solutions
Specific facts, details, examples, and reasons indicating why one solution is the
best
An analytical tone
Prewriting

Define the problem to be solved. In order to write a problem-solution essay, you need to start
with a clear vision of the problem itself.

Brainstorm to identify several solutions. Look for as many solutions as you can, even if they
solve only part of the problem. List each solution and evaluate it. One good technique is to ask
questions. Create the chart like this one to help you evaluate your various solutions.
Sample thesis statement: The articles
Write a thesis statement. Write a thesis statement briefly Confederation left the new nation too
identifying the problem. weak because they allowed no central
Your thesis statement may also indicate possible solutions, authority besides Congress. The Articles
but you may also save the information for the later in your needed to be changed in some way---or
essay. something new had to replace them.

Gather supporting information. Look for facts, details,

and reasons to support your solutions to the problem.
Problem Possible Solution Evaluation

Leave the Article as is, persuade other countries Not practical---what would make
The articles of and Americans to respect the new nation more established governments and
Confederation left local rebels except a weak
the nation weak authority?
because there was Leave the basic Articles in place but have Possible, but amendments needed to
no Congress elect a new executive each year, rotating be agreed on by all states. Also,
central authority from state to state how does the central authority work
with the Congress, which was used
to running everything?
Get rid of the Articles, create an entirely new plan Possible, but it would be a huge
task to start all over again.

Drafting

Decide how to organize your writing. The simplest way to organize a problem-solution essay
is to begin by identifying the problem in the first paragraph, leading up to your thesis statement.
Present the solution that you think works best, explaining why it is the most promising one.

Support your thesis with examples and details. Use your lists of supporting information to
back up your ideas about the best solution to the problem.

Use an analytical tone. As you write your draft, remember that you are appealing to peoples
ability to reason, not to their emotions. Describe the problem and the various possible solutions
objectively.

Write a strong conclusion. In your final paragraph, restate your ideas about the problem and its
solution.

Model essay
Notice how this problem-solution essay includes the characteristics you have learned about.

The Articles of Confederation: Problems and Solutions

In November 1777, the Continental Congress approved the first American constitution:
The Articles of Confederation. Soon, after the Articles were ratified
by the states in 1781, problems arose. One of the most serious of The thesis statement identifies
these problems was that the Articles of Confederation left the new the problem.
nation too weak. It allowed for no central authority besides
Congress.
 The Articles of Confederation created a loose alliance of 13 independent states. No state
wanted to give up its power to a strong central government. Even This paragraph describes the
Congress had a little power. For example, Congress could pass law, problem in the greater detail.
but nine states had to approve the law to before it went into effect.
Congress had no power to tax the states, so the nation could not pay
its
war debts.
Recognizing that any problems existed
with the Articles of Confederation, the
Continental Congress met again in 1787. There were a number of each paragraph
solutions they could have considered. First, Congress could change the describes possible
Articles so that Congress could elect a new central authority each year. solutions and
Second, Congress could give itself more power. These solutions might discusses their
solve some of the nations problems, but not all. Finally, Congress pros and cons.
could get rid of the articles and create an entirely new plan of
government. The delegates saw this as the
best solution, but one that would take a great The analytical tone
deal of work. presents the information
Most of the delegates to what become known as the fairly, using
Constitutional Convention recognized that the Articles of straightforward language.
Confederation had serious weaknesses. The decision to
formulate a new plan of government was a bold one.
The conclusion relates the
Nevertheless, it proved to be the best solution. The delegates
thesis. It shows the importance
created a new and lasting form of government for the United
of solving the problem and
States.
explaining why the solution
was a good one.
PERSUASION

Introduction

Persuasive also called Argument

A persuasive paragraph/essay:

Tries to persuade the reader to accept your point of view or even to change his/her point
of view.
The argument must always use sound reasoning and solid evidence by stating facts,
giving logical reasons, using examples, and quoting experts.

Further Discussion
In persuasive writing you take a clear position and then present evidence to support your
position. If, for example, you believe that the penalties for drinking and driving are too light,
then your basic organization might look something like this:

Topic: Penalties for drinking and driving are too light

Points to support your argument:

people should be responsible for their actions when they drink

cars are weapons in the hands of a drunk driver
all situations involving drunk drivers have the potential for serious consequences
drunk drivers responsible for most accidents
drunk drivers often get a slap on the wrist while victims suffer for a long time
stiff penalties would reduce drunk driving
other drivers pay through increased insurance costs

Different ways to support your argument:

Facts - A powerful means of convincing, facts can come from your reading, observation, or
personal experience.
Note: Do not confuse facts with truths. A "truth" is an idea believed by many people, but it
cannot be proven.
Statistics - These can provide excellent support. Be sure your statistics come from responsible
sources. Always cite your sources.
Quotes - Direct quotes from leading experts that support your position are invaluable.
Examples - Examples enhance your meaning and make your ideas concrete. They are the proof.

Persuasive Paragraph Outline

Topic Sentence

Reasons to support your opinion

Closing Sentence(restate your opinion)

Examples:

Homework

Homework is an important part of the learning process in middle school. One reason is that
homework gives students additional practice of skills covered in class. Middle school classes are
too short to teach a new concept and practice it sufficiently for students to master. Students need
both guided practice in class and independent practice at home. Another reason for homework is
that it provides time to complete longer assignments. For example, the ideal composition process
allows time for students to think and to reflect on their ideas, as well as time to revise and to
proofread their writing. Also, reports and special projects often require research that cannot
always be done at school. In addition, since all students do not work at the same speed, giving
students time at home to finish work keeps them from falling behind. Finally, the most important
reason for homework is that it ensures review. New material and old material are practiced in
daily assignments. Students who do their homework daily are prepared for tests and make better
grades. In conclusion, not only is homework essential to mastering new skills and maintaining
previously learned skills, but it also guarantees constant review and provides time for longer
assignments, as well as additional time for students who need it. Students, do your daily
homework, make better grades, and learn more!

Laugher the Medicine

Laughter is one of the greatest healing devices known to man. Laughter is powerful and can help
people in many different ways. It has the power to cure something as little as a bad day or to heal
the wounds of a terminally ill person. Laughing has helped create the smile which is the
universal sign of well being. Generally, individuals who do not laugh live miserably and have
unhappy lives. Dr. Robert Holden found out that smiling and laughing releases endorphins in the
brain which gives people a overall happy well being. Using comedy, many doctors have
stimulated the healing process in manic depressants and fatally ill patients giving them hope and
ambition. In many clinics laughter is being used in replacing anti depressants and reduces the
need for pain killers.(Dr. Gael Crystal). Take comedians for example, they usually live long and
happy lives. Putting a smile on faces and laughs in souls is what makes life complete. Laughter
helps heal people and brightens spirits for a better and healthier life . Laughing is a sign of joy
and hope and keeps people normal and the world happy. Using the techniques of laughter and
happiness is the best medicine known to man. Laughter is the universal sign of well being and
happiness within health. Laughing brightens the spirit and heals the mind and body of people
who allow it to overcome them. So try a smile and laugh on for size and live a longer happier life
with loved ones.

Essay Outline
 Introductory Paragraph

o Grab the readers attention by using a hook.

o Give an overview of the argument.
o Close with a thesis statement that reveals the position to be argued.

Body Paragraphs

o Each body paragraph should focus on one piece of evidence.

o Within each paragraph, provide sufficient supporting detail.

Opposing View Paragraph

o Describe and then refute the key points of the opposing view.

Concluding Paragraph

o Restate and reinforce the thesis and supporting evidence.

Example:
Reasons to Become a Volunteer

In our modern capitalistic world, the idea of doing something for free might sound strange.
Western society has oriented itself on success and profit, people possessing honed professional
skills, and being able to sell these skills; therefore, the idea of working for free does not fit into
such an outlook. However, it strongly depends on how you look at it; for instance, volunteering,
which has become popular in recent decades, is one of the greatest examples of how a job can
pay off not with just money. It can be said that everyone should at least once in their lifetime try
volunteering due to a number of reasons.

Although it may sound paradoxical, volunteering is one of the easiest ways to find a job. After
graduating from a college or university, many get stuck in the situation of trying to find a job, but
needing working experience, but you cannot obtain working experience because no one hires
you. Statistics show about 73% of employers would rather prefer to hire a person with
volunteering experience in the field than a person without one; 94% of employers share the
belief that volunteering helps potential employees obtain new skills and diversifies their
qualification, and thus are more prone to hiring people who volunteer. Respectively, 94% of
those people believe that volunteering can add to ones skills; 94% of people who were hired
after a volunteering experience say such an experience aided them in getting their first job, or
benefited them in other ways, such as quicker promotion, salary increases, or obtaining new
skills (World Volunteer Web). Having relevant work experience obtained during volunteering
and specifying it in your CV can be a kickstarter for your career, because nowadays more and
more employers tend to count volunteering as actual work experience (ReachOut.com). Besides,
volunteering is a great option to explore possible career opportunities if you are unsure what you
would like be doing for living. Through various programs, you can try yourself in a number of
organizations, working on different problems, and on different positions, without having to do
job-hunting, and then job-hopping. Therefore, if you still think you do not have time to volunteer
because you need to look for a job, or because volunteering could be a nuisance to your duties,
you might want to reconsider your opinion.

Also, volunteering is a natural way of socialization and getting to know your surroundings,
meeting new people, and finding useful contacts. Regularly meeting with a group of people who
share the same activities, way of thinking, and goals can make it easier for you to make friends.
Besides, volunteering could make a great example for your children; if you want to teach them
responsibility, compassion, and how one person can make a difference by personally
participating in solving it, you should volunteer; children tend to learn through observing what
adults do, and by your example they will have a great role model to adopt. And, of course,
through volunteering you can find a lot of useful contacts, resources, and activities for your
whole family (HelpGuide).

There have been surprising research studies connecting helping other people on a voluntary basis
with mental health; specifically, people who are known to be involved into different forms of
selflessly helping other people, animals, and so on, felt like they were undergoing some sort of
beneficial therapy. In particular, according to CSV, millions of people in the United Kingdom
doing voluntary work started to feel less depressed; about 48% of those who have been involved
in volunteering during the last two years felt relief in terms of depression, and improvement of
their mental condition. Among more than 600 volunteers who were observed during the
experiment, 63% of people aged between 25 and 34 said that volunteering reduced their stress
levelsso did about 62% of volunteers over 65 years old. According to CSVs research,
volunteering also helps reduce work-related stress, and even boosts productivity: 31% of people
aged between 18 and 24 said they had taken less time off work since starting to volunteer (The
Guardian).

All these facts demonstrate that volunteering is a great alternative to a number of other activities,
since it can help you acquire work experience and get a job; makes you more sociable, and turns
you into a good role model for your children; and besides, it decreases the levels of stress we are
exposed to on a daily basis, and helps people effectively combat depression. Therefore, you
might want to start volunteering as soon as possible.
Group 2

Torcatos, Stephanie Mae M.

Ardiente, Lorraine

Enojo, Joshua

De Duzman, Aron

Barbo, Aubrey

Cardenio, Tiffany

Ubalde, Louis

Evangelista, Jearome

Lapuz, John Kenneth

Jualo, Pejay

Padilla, Lyra

Valeros, Aira

Calisay, Markfrancis

Cabal, Jericho

Bitang, Loui Glenn