A definition paragraph explains exactly what a thing or idea is. It gives us details, and sometimes examples to help us understand difficult concepts. This type of paragraph does not assume that the reader has any prior knowledge of the subject.

Useful language:

A classification paragraph is sometimes similar to, or combined with a definition paragraph, it sorts things or ideas into categories or groups, and helps us understand things by type. Classifications can be obvious and objective (for example, a dog is a type of animal) or can be subjective, and decided upon by the writer (for example, there are two types of people in this world, followers and leaders).

Useful language:

A compare and contrast paragraph focuses on the similarities and differences between two or more things, people, places or ideas. This type of paragraph sometimes compares things from a neutral point of view, and sometimes has a bias in favor of one, and shows us the advantages of one thing over another.

Useful language:

A descriptive paragraph is one that tells us about a thing. It can use comparison, definition and classification to achieve this, but it´s main aim is to illustrate or ‘paint a picture´ in the mind of the reader. It is often easily identified by it´s use of adjectives and relative clauses.

Useful language:

• It´s like… It resembles… It´s similar to…
• Materials? metal, glass, wood, cotton, silk, flesh, fur, rock…
• Adjectives for things? enormous, miniscule, colorful, intricate…
• Adjectives for people? vivacious, introverted, arrogant, awkward…
• Adjectives of sense? salty, bright, deafening, aromatic, smooth…

Match these extracts to the paragraph type:

Useful language:

• ….A snake is a type of reptile. It is long, and has no legs. It has cold blood, and lays eggs to have its young. Snakes are often venomous, and can be aggressive…
• …Life in the city is busy, sometimes stressful and often exciting. On the other hand, country life is slower, more relaxing, and sometimes a little boring…
• …The wooden house was old, and the colored paint faded. Several of the windows were cracked, and the roof appeared to have collapsed on one side. The garden was overgrown…
• …Within the department there are administrative staff, who handle all office matters, and academic staff, who are concerned with research and teaching…

Now scroll down for the answers.

• A paragraph that defines.
• A paragraph that compares and contrasts.
• A paragraph that describes.
• A paragraph that classifies.