A Classification Essay Outline
A classification essays follow a typical essay organization with an introduction paragraph, body paragraphs, and a conclusion paragraph.
I. Introduction Paragraph:
1. Introduces the subject area. The Hook: Catch the attention of your audience (quote, question, interesting statement)
2. Breaks the subject area into categories and explains why you chose this type of classification.
Thesis statement: How to write a thesis statement
The thesis statement:
II. Body Paragraph 1: First subcategory
Describes the first subcategory and its Characteristics and give examples
III. Body Paragraph 2: Second subcategory
Describes the second subcategory and its Characteristics and give examples
IV. Body Paragraph 3: Third subcategory
Describes the third subcategory and its Characteristics and give examples
Other body paragraphs can be added based on how many categories you have
V. Conclusion
There are some key words and phrases which are typical in writing a classification essay such as: this type of, several kinds of, is categorized by, classified according to, can be divided into, in this category, the first kind, the second kind, the third kind, the first type, the second type, the third type etc...
Writing an Introduction Paragraph
When writing an introduction paragraph for a classification essay your first sentence is known as the hook because it caches the attention of your readers. This sentence is then followed by connecting information that explains the subject area and how its broken down into subcategories. You also want to explain why you are categorizing the subject into these different subcategories. The Introduction sentence also includes your thesis statement and explains the purpose of the essay. The thesis is included towards the end of the paragraph.
Use the following classification thesis equation:
topic + subtopics + rationale for the subtopics = thesis.
Writing the Body Paragraphs
The body paragraphs of a classification essay are dedicated to fully explaining each one of the subcategories you have chosen for your topic. Each subcategory will be broken down into its own paragraph. The paragraphs should illustrate in detail and give examples of the category. Use information from sources you found during your research.
Writing the Conclusion
The conclusion should successfully wrap up your essay by reconnecting the reader to the initial topics and proves your thesis