1. Development by EXAMPLE

It is used to explain and support a generalization.

You can use one example and discuss it fully:

Individual rights and freedoms are a key value of individualism and an important feature of liberal democracies. An example of these rights is the freedom of expression. Freedom of expression is a fundamental right in Canada; however, there are times when this freedom might justifiably be limited. For instance, it is unlawful to say or write something that is untrue, unfair and hurtful. In fact, under section 319(2) of the Criminal Code, it is unlawful to promote hatred against an identifiable group.

Or use a few examples and refer to them briefly:

Individual rights and freedoms are a key value of individualism and an important feature of liberal democracies. Examples of these rights and freedoms include freedom of expression which is also known as freedom of speech; freedom of religion wherein citizens are free to choose and practice any kind of religion they prefer; and the right to life, liberty, and security. The legal rights guaranteed by the Charter are contained in sections 7 to 14.

2. Development by COMPARISON/CONTRAST

Comparisons show two things with similar characteristics.

Contrasts show how two things differ.

Points to consider:

a. Choose relevant details to compare or contrast.

b. Choose the major commonalities and differences.

c. Use strong transitions to connect the parts of your comparison or contrast.

Communism and Fascism are both socialist ideologies wherein the state is more important than the individuals and both are ruled by a single party dictatorship. However, they are different in other ways because Communism prefers or favors the working class (proletariat) while Fascism favors the capitalists. Communism also believes that humans are basically rational while Fascism believes the opposite.

3. Development by CAUSE and EFFECT

Cause and effect tells why something happens.

Ways to develop cause and effect paragraphs:

a. Start with a cause and show/predict its effect.

Napoleon Bonaparte’s military successes, his role as France’s leader, and the reforms he created after the French Revolution has made him an icon and a hero.

b. Start with an effect and try to explain its cause.

Napoleon Bonaparte has become France’s icon and hero because of his military successes, his role as leader of France, and the reforms he created after the French Revolution.

4. Development by CLASSIFICATION

Classification shows how things fit into a category or how it differs from a category.

Tips on developing a paragraph or essay using classification:

a. Have an adequate and accurate definition of the category.

b. Include both similarities and differences from the category to create more interest.

Topic: Spirituality and Religion

Spirituality can be defined as a way to find the meaning of life or connecting with a spiritual being. However, it can be a very complicated idea that can mean various things depending on the beliefs, values and culture of a person or groups. From Aboriginal perspectives, an individual’s spirituality originates from his or her relationship to the natural world. With this spiritual belief comes his or her respect and honour for everything that the world holds which include human beings, animals, plants, land, wind and sun.

The religious beliefs of a group are based on understandings of one’s place in the world and ideas about how groups will live. Members of the group share a system of beliefs and values based on those understandings. For example, Catholics believe in the gospel of Christ as recorded in the Bible and interpreted by the council of bishops together with the Pope. They accept the seven sacraments and the doctrine of apostolic succession.

References:

1. Hilker and Harper, Methods of Development, Elements of English 10, © Harcourt Canada pp.362-366

2. Noesgaard, Yoshida, et.al., Understanding of Ideologies ©2010 Oxford p11

3. Harding, Smith, et.al., Perspectives on Nationalism © 2009 Oxford p24

4. De Wolf, Gregg, et.al., Catholicism, Canadian Dictionary © 2003 Gage Learning Corporation