How does Classification How does Classification work?work?

Classification is a powerful option that allows a writer to make sense of a larger subject by dividing it into smaller categories, each one consisting of smaller items

Basics of ClassificationBasics of Classification

Informative classification essay- is about a factual subject, such as; a report classifying moths or word-processing software. Just have a clear picture of the subject as possible.

Personal classification essay- Purpose is to enlighten and entertain. For example; blood relatives, breaks down to genetic proximity into siblings, parents, and then extended relatives.

Issues to keep in mindIssues to keep in mind

Comparison/contrast- examine each group carefully.

Classification may seem like a dry, almost boring rhetorical option.

The method you use to identify a category within a paragraph or section.

Your purpose for writing a classification essay

Your language level

Informative vs. Informative vs. personalpersonal

Informative-informs, gains nothing by being boring or dry, audience-different expectations, reader assume that the writer knows more about the subject than they do.

Personal- also informs, two things to keep in mind; how much can the reader be expected to know about this subject and if certain terms need to be defined

Language levelLanguage level

Self-conscious, artificially formal language is never appropriate

Use concrete language and active verbs to describe your categories

Don’t say I and classify

Choosing a topicChoosing a topic

Informative classification-thinking of a topic with which you are already familiar with, explain the topic to the reader, and gain a better understanding.

Consider doing some online and library research to look for new ideas/info. Consider your audience and your purpose.

Personal classification- personal doesn’t mean private. Can you develop the essay to engage your audience?

Classifications inClassifications in“The Migration of the Talented “The Migration of the Talented

Tenth” Tenth”

Written by Carter G. Woodson

PoliticiansPoliticians

Offered jobs in Washington, DC by Republicans

Often had to take lower jobs in their field

BusinessmenBusinessmen

More money in North Encouraged their northern educated

children should stay in North because the South was to dangerous

Educated/EducatorsEducated/Educators

Outspoken White curriculum Lower salaries in South

Intelligent Laboring ClassIntelligent Laboring Class

Improve economic conditions Spontaneous or planned

migrations

Any Questions?

About the AuthorAbout the Author

Carter G. WoodsonCarter G. Woodson

Born December 19, 1875

Founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History

One of the 1st scholars to value and study Black History

He is known as the Father of Black History

Carter G. WoodsonCarter G. Woodson

The son of former slaves James and Elizabeth Riddle Woodson

Woodson taught and mastered the fundamentals of common school subjects by age 17.

Began publication of the Journal of Negro History in 1916. It has never missed an issue

Carter G. WoodsonCarter G. Woodson

He was at one time the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University

He was affiliated with the Washington, D.C. branch of the NAACP, and its Chairman Archibald Grimké

He left Howard University because of his differences with its president

Dr. Woodson devoted the rest of his life to historical research.

Carter G. WoodsonCarter G. Woodson

In 1926, Woodson single-handedly pioneered the celebration of "Negro History Week", for the second week in February, marking the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass

The week was later extended to the full month of February and renamed Black History Month.