Continuing with the topic of common patterns to writing, there are a few more notable patterns frequently seen. These are also the patterns of writing the average person is most comfortable writing in since they are introduced and practiced at a young age.
Compare-Contrast
In this pattern of writing, an author simply compares at least two things or ideas. It may be seen in an article where the author compares the lives of butterflies to that of moths. It is also a pattern seen in history texts, such as a passage discussing the type of education children received in the nineteenth century versus the twentieth century.
Generalization-Support
An author makes a statement, and then spends the rest of the writing giving supporting facts, ideas, or arguments. A person may write that cars are safer now than ever. Then, proceed in describe supporting details including the different safety features put in place in the last thirty years. The traditional writing exercise of creating a thesis with supporting details and evidence often fits this pattern.
Concept-Definition
In a way, this writing pattern is a simplified version of generalization and support. In this pattern, a concept is stated (i.e., wind farms, monarchy, squids) and the author defines the concept in detail throughout the rest of the passage.
Event detail
In this pattern of writing, the ‘who,’ ‘what,’ ‘where,’ ‘when,’ ‘why,’ and ‘how’ of an event is identified, described, and sometimes discussed. It is also as other names. A lot of young students practice this writing style by thinking of the ‘5 Ws’ and later adding the ‘how’. The in everyday world, this writing pattern is probably most commonly spotted in magazines found at checkout stands. Try to keep writing patterns in mind the next time you read an article covering a recent awards show or sporting event.
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