Key Terms
Definition
"Most people think [subject] means [X]; however, it really means [Y]."
Structure
Start with a comparison statement, then explain the specific ways the two subjects are similar.
Frame
"Most people think [subject] means [common definition]; however, [subject] really means [expanded or personal definition
Example topic sentence
"Enrolling as a first-year student is like visiting an amusement park for the first time: both require paying high fees,
When to use it
A key term in your argument is easily confused, often misunderstood, or carries meaning beyond its dictionary entry. Als
Signal words
According to, also, because, besides, but, consequently, equally important, finally, for example, furthermore, however,
Signal words (cause)
Because, since, for this reason, leads to, is caused by, in order to, begins with. Signal words (effect): as a result, t
Division
Breaking a single large subject into smaller component parts.
Classification
Grouping individual items into larger, more comprehensive categories.
Example (Division)
"The layout of the new superstore can be divided into furniture (third floor), household goods (second floor), and cloth
Example (Classification)
"During the pandemic, essential workers not under quarantine included employees in health care, childcare, transportatio
Signal words (classification)
Aspects, characteristics, classes, comprises, consists of, elements, feature, form, genre, group, kinds, methods, types,
Example
"Most people think patriotism means showing devotion to their country; to me, however, it is conducting myself in ways t
Signal words (comparison)
Alike, both, each, equally, in common, in comparison, just as, likewise, same as, similar, similarly. Signal words (cont
Signal words (problem)
Challenge, crisis, difficulty, dilemma, issue, obstacle, predicament, problem, puzzle, situation, snag. Signal words (so