Methods of Development

Question 1

Illustrations / Details / Examples

Answer 1

The function of this method of development is to provide supporting evidence within paragraphs.
For this method of development:
a) Give your readers enough evidence so that they will be convinced of the reasonableness of your generalities.
b) Decide which senses –sight, sound, smell, touch, taste- you can best appeal to.
c) Use concrete detail.

Question 2

Description

Answer 2

A description is a verbal picture of an object, a
scene, a person, or an event. In all descriptive writing, the objective is to provide readers with a picture of what it was like to be there.

Description incorporates the method of
illustration / details / examples.

Question 3

Narration

Answer 3

• Identification of the feeling or idea you wish to convey through your narrator.
• Arrangement of the narrative events chronologically, selecting the details that will reinforce that feeling or idea.
• Inclusion of only those other details which you need to make the narrative credible.

Question 4

Comparison / contrast

Answer 4

The comparison / contrast method of
development is used to highlight similarities
and differences within paragraphs and essays.

Question 5

Analogy

Answer 5

The function of an analogy is to clarify complex
subjects or processes within paragraphs.

Analogy involves using the following:

• Decide on the impression you wish to give your reader about your subject.
• Think of another subject that lends itself to comparison with your subject.
• Find areas of likeness between the two subjects.
  Draw the comparison between the subjects.

Question 6

Definition

Answer 6

An essay or paragraph that is developed using
definition examines the meaning of a term at
some length. It limits and identifies a term
within the paragraphs and essays.

Question 7

Process

Answer 7

A process paper or paragraph concentrates on how something is done. It uses explanation.

Question 8

Classification

Answer 8

Classification arranges a complex set of ideas or items within paragraphs and essays.

Question 9

Casual Analysis

Answer 9

Causal analysis explains and defines cause and effect relationships within paragraphs and essays.

Question 10

Concession

Answer 10

Concession acknowledges the principal points of opposition argument, usually within paragraphs.

Question 11

Generalization

Answer 11

Generalizations summarize details or particulars in larger categories within paragraphs and essays.
A generalization is a statement concerning or
applied to a set of things, ideas, or instances.

Question 12

Restatement

Answer 12

Restatement sums up main points or repeats for emphasis within paragraphs