Classification Essay
Definition
Classification has to do with sorting things into
groups. When you classify, you generally
break a subject down into the most meaningful parts. Think categories or varieties. You may also classify a subject by explaining
how it fits into a larger category or grouping.
When writing an essay of classification, your goal is to help readers
better understand the whole (your topic) by presenting the parts. Your goal may also be to show how your
subject fits into the larger scheme of things.
Thesis Development
The thesis statement should name the subject (what is
being classified), the mode of classification (classify, group, kinds), and the
categories. The thesis often includes
the differentiating characteristics.
Examples:
Electricians are
classified as foremen, journeymen, and apprentices based on their education
experience, and salary.
Nurses can be
classified as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, or nurse
assistants. These nurses can be
differentiated based on their education, salary, and duties.
Tennis
enthusiasts are aware of the three types of racquets: wood, graphite, and steel. These racquets differ in price, flexibility,
size, and durability.
Organization
Classification is a rather easy pattern to use because it
is so structured. Once you’ve decided on your topic, its categories, and their
differentiating characteristics, it is a matter of plugging in the
differentiating characteristics in the same order for each category. You must be careful to keep everything in the
same order that you listed in your thesis.
When you do this, the essay almost writes itself.
Classification essays are structured first by category
(classes or types you have divided your subject into), and then by
differentiating characteristics (the ways your categories can be distinguished
from one another).
Examples:
I. Introduction with Topic
Sentence or Thesis
II. Category #1
A. Characteristic
#1
B. Characteristic
#2
C. Characteristic
##
D. Characteristic
#4
III. Category #2
A. Characteristic
#1
B. Characteristic
#2
C. Characteristic
##
D. Characteristic
#4
IV. Category #3
A. Characteristic
#1
B. Characteristic
#2
C. Characteristic
##
D. Characteristic
#4
V. Conclusion
Tips on Writing
Determine the
purpose of your classification. Are you
intending to inform your reader about the differences or to persuade him that
on category is superior to the rest?
Determine the
categories of your classification, making sure that there is no overlap in the
categories.
Determine the
differentiating characteristics.
Outline your
essay and make sure you present the characteristics in the same order.
Pitfalls to Avoid
Avoid
oversimplification, stereotypes, or misrepresentation.
Avoid overlapping
categories. Make sure the categories are
clearly different from each other and that your types fit into only one
category.
Avoid missing
categories. Make sure your categories
account for all the types in your subject.
Essay Guidelines
Due dates: Pre-Write due October 16; Rough Draft due
October 23; Final due November 6
Essay
length: 700 – 900 words (about 2 – 3
pages)
Rough drafts can
be typed or hand-written, but must be double-spaced.
Final draft
format:
Typed (if this is
not possible, please let me know)
1 inch margins
Name and date on
the upper right hand corner
Number the pages
on the lower right hand corner
Title centered
above the text of the essay
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