Seven Types of Paragraphs

Different Body Essay Kinds

There are at least seven types of paragraphs. Knowledge of the differences between them can facilitate
composing well-structured essays.

In order to write coherent essays, students must first learn about the functions of various paragraphs. Most
paragraphs will have several functions to fulfill at a time; it is important to know under what circumstances their
functions can be conjoined. The following list contains explanations about the content and style of different
paragraphs.

Narration Paragraph

Narration paragraphs are most distinctively used in fiction. As such, they will contain all necessary components
of action development: protagonist, setting, goal, obstacle, climax and resolution. Writing a narration paragraph
requires, consequently, sequential order and chronology. There are many descriptive elements included into the
body of a narration paragraph but, if composed correctly, the paragraph will feature much more action than
depiction.

Example of a Narrative Paragraph

Larry suddenly woke up from a deep sleep. The sun was dazzling his half-open eyes, and he couldn’t figure out
what time it was. The door to his room was closed; the house was immersed in some sort of reckless silence. He
slowly got out of his bed and approached the bench right next to the window. For a moment, he thought, he
heard a tapping sound coming from the attic. Then again he heard the sound, only this time it seemed to be
somewhat closer. He looked outside the window and saw a man going by the left side of the road. On seeing
Larry, the man approached his garden’s fence and whistled. At this point, Larry recognized Nick and waved his
hand. He quickly got dressed and was about the get down to open the gate, but he again heard someone
murmuring in the other part of the house. Larry decided to go to the attic and see what was causing this, now
buzzing, sound. He got to the second floor of his house and looked toward the attic. He quickly opened its door
and looked inside. Nothing was found. He was about to turn back and attend to his guest when he, suddenly,
slipped on the stairs and fell. He called out to Nick to help him get up.

Exposition Paragraph

Often times, this kind of a paragraph is used as a component of other types. It’s created in order to clarify or
explain a problem or a phenomenon. Writing exposition paragraphs requires strict focus on evidence and
objective language. It can contain elements of comparison and contrast or cause and effect writing - both
facilitate accurate exposition of its subject-matter.

Example of an Expository Paragraph

A disease that causes chronic gastrological disorders, IBD, is envisioned in a spectrum of severities. Cats can
vomit heavily, and suffer from continuous diarrhea. Reasons for the disease are yet unknown. Bacterial
infections, gastrological irritation, lack of vitamins are often quoted as factors contributing to the development
of the disease. Veterinarians, treating IBD in cats, usually prescribe medicine and advice on the dietary
management as well as make surgical choices. If untreated, IBD, can be fatal for cats. Research - conducted
mostly by pet owners - shows that a cat’s diet can be critical. Further research will include inspection of
several vaccines. So far, grain-free, raw meat diet has already proved to be largely beneficial.
Definition Paragraph

Definition paragraphs are used in order to explain the meaning, origin and function of things. They are used
both in academic writing and in fiction. To write a definition paragraph, writers should concentrate on the role
of its subject in the context of the whole essay and list comparisons as well as examples accordingly.

Example of a Definition Paragraph

The IAU has so far recognized five dwarf planets differentiated from planets by a parameter of “planetary
discriminant” which allows estimating the capacity to dominate orbits. According to NationMaster
Encyclopaedia dwarf planets follow orbits which are not free from other minor celestial bodies.
Simultaneously, they always circulate the Sun and not other celestial objects (they are not satellites). Several
dwarf planets have already been scrutinized effectively. Their physical properties have been calculated through
routine Earth-based observations as well as advanced image-searching software. Since current data may not
be entirely accurate, further examinations are undertaken by astronomers and physicists world-wide.

Classification Paragraph

Writing a classification paragraph takes a slightly varied approach. It should rely on both defining and
comparing. Writers should classify the subject of the paragraph in a specific context providing comparisons to
corresponding ideas. Classification can be performed on multiple levels – semantic (comparing different
meanings of things), linguistic (using vocabulary to show contrast), and more.

Example of a Classification Paragraph

Paraphrasing is used for different purposes. Some paraphrases will be designated to support already existing
evidence. Others will reinforce argumentation against evidence. Still others will help to develop existing
arguments and provide back-up for any conclusion drawn in the course of writing. Depending on the function,
paraphrases will be introduced in accordance with their unique context. Quotations require yet another
approach. They are not self-expressive because every quotation can signify a number of different things in
various contexts. It is both the introduction and the commentary that follows it which decides about its context
and the ultimate meaning of a given citation in an essay. Paraphrasing quotations - changing the original
words or sense is not allowed.

Description Paragraph

Preferably, description paragraphs should concentrate on action (verbs), rather than sensations (adverbs and
adjectives). Writers should assume the role of readers whose idea of the described events is, in entirety,
constructed by the paragraph content. Description paragraphs should be detailed, clear, and render the
represented reality chronologically.

Example of a Descriptive Paragraph

Gregory is my beautiful gray Persian cat. He walks with pride and grace, performing a dance of disdain as he
slowly lifts and lowers each paw with the delicacy of a ballet dancer. His pride, however, does not extend to his
appearance, for he spends most of his time indoors watching television and growing fat. He enjoys TV
commercials, especially those for Meow Mix and 9 Lives. His familiarity with cat food commercials has led him
to reject generic brands of cat food in favor of only the most expensive brands. Gregory is as finicky about
visitors as he is about what he eats, befriending some and repelling others. He may snuggle up against your
ankle, begging to be petted, or he may imitate a skunk and stain your favorite trousers. Gregory does not do
this to establish his territory, as many cat experts think, but to humiliate me because he is jealous of my friends.
After my guests have fled, I look at the old fleabag snoozing and smiling to himself in front of the television set,
and I have to forgive him for his obnoxious, but endearing, habits.

Process Analysis Paragraph

It, usually, takes the form of a how-to paragraph which guides readers through a process or action to be
performed. It’s very concise and uses formal, non-descriptive vocabulary. It should be written in chronological
order which accounts for subsequent actions.

Example of a Process Analysis Paragraph

The problem of hairballs that have already formed in cat’s fur can be solved by proper brushing. In order to
brush your cat’s hairballs, you’ll need two kinds of brushes: a wide-teeth wipe and a metallic one. The former
will help you dissolve and, partially, remove tightly knotted hairballs without causing any pain or discomfort to
your cat. The latter, used subsequently, will remove excess of loose puffy hair and decrease the possibility of
reoccurrence the next day. Once brushing is over, make sure to polish your cat’s fur all over his body with the
help of a clean, cotton, or woolen cloth.

Persuasion Paragraph

Persuasion paragraphs require exhortatory and dynamic language. They are aimed at persuading others into
taking a particular action or adopting certain point of view. They should be devoid of descriptive content and,
instead, rely on the imperative mode.

Adopting a Pet from the Pound

Owning a pet from the pound or Animal Rescue League has many advantages. First of all, a child feels good
about rescuing an abandoned or abused animal and giving it a whole new life. Besides, if the animals from the
pound aren’t adopted right away, they might be put to sleep. Having a pet also means lots of responsibilities. A
child has to feed, clean up after, brush, and exercise the pet.

Another great advantage of having a pet from the pound is the price of these cute and cuddly animals. Pets
from the pound cost only a few dollars while pets at a fancy pet store can cost hundreds of dollars.

Once you adopt a pet from the Animal Rescue League, it will quickly become a part of your family. If you are
thinking of adopting a pet, you might consider choosing a dog or a cat. Dogs and cats can bring lots of happy
times to a family, and they can be excellent companions for a person who lives alone or someone who has lost a
loved one. Dogs are also a wonderful source of protection. Cats are funny, and they may help to calm people
down when they are sad or mad.

Please consider adopting an animal. If you remember all of the advantages of adopting a pet from the pound,
you might find the bird, mouse, hamster, dog, or cat of your choice.