Determining Organizational Patterns

Because the television was too loud, I was not able to concentrate on my studies, and consequently, I did not do well on my algebra test.

• comparison/contrast

• listing

• defintion

• cause and effect

My dog Moonbear was very different from my dog Frankie.

• comparison/contrast
• definition
• sequence
• cause and effect

There are several chores that I do every day: wash the dishes, make the beds, and take out the trash.

• comparison/contrast
• defintion
• listing
• sequence

To make a pasta face, cut a large circle 1 foot in diameter from cardboard. Next, cut 2 large holes 1.5 inches apart in the center of the circle.  Then, Cut 2 squares from the plastic packaging to fit over the eye holes and tape onto the back of the mask.  Next, paint the front of the mask white and leave to dry. 

• comparison/contrast
• definition
• listing
• sequence

Research shows that there are similarities between babies learning to talk and birds learning to sing.

What pattern is indicated by this topic sentence?

• comparison/contrast

• definition

• cause/effect

• tine order

Categorizing is defined as the grouping together of ideas that have common features.

What pattern is indicated by this topic sentence?

• comparison/contrast

• cause/effect

• list

• definition

If you want to write a paragraph describing how to change a flat tire on a car, which pattern would you be most likely to use?

• list
• sequence
• comparison/contrast
• defintion

If you want to explain to someone what a rain forest is, which pattern is probably the most logical one to use?

• list
• sequence
• comparison/contrast
• defintion

Your criminal justice professor tells the class he is going to present the differences between misdemeanor crimes and felonies. You expect that he will organize the information using which pattern?

• list
• sequence
• comparison/contrast
• defintion

If you write a paper explaining the most common reasons employees lose their jobs, you would probably organize your thoughts using which pattern?

• list
• sequence
• comparison/contrast
• cause and effect