PROCESS WRITING
Example ParagraphWays to make Breaking up Easier
Breaking up with a boyfriend or girlfriend can be easier said than done, but here are five steps that may help the breaking up process. First, try to distance yourself by suddenly becoming busier than usual. The next step is to calmly tell the other person how you are feeling. Then gently let him or her know that you do not want to be together anymore. Then make sure to be sensitive of his or her feelings and answer any questions that he or she may have. For example, if the person starts to cry, use kind words to help comfort him or her. After everything is said and done, take some alone time for your self because everyone has feelings to sort out after a break up. Finally, go out with friends and meet new people. With these five steps it will make the breaking up process smooth for both parties.
~© Sara Bedwell~
Characteristics of Process Paragraphs:
Are usually organized chronologically (by time order).
Follow a logical order (first things first!).
Give all the necessary steps.
Topic SentenceA topic sentence tells the reader
the main topic and how the topic is going to be discussed or organized.
In a process paragraph, it tells you what the result of the process will be and may mention the number of steps.
Topic SentenceWhat is the topic sentence in the
example paragraph?
Breaking up with a boyfriend or girlfriend can be easier said than done, but here are five steps that may help the breaking up process.
TransitionsTo write a good process paragraph,
good use of transitional expressions is necessary. They alert the reader that a new step is coming. They also help the reader to find and remember the information more easily.
Some common transitions useful for
process writing: first, next, then, firstly, secondly, finally, after that, . . .
Transitional ExpressionsWhat are the transitional
expressions in the example paragraph?
FirstThe next stepThenNextAfter everything is said and
done,Finally
Transitional ExpressionsBeginning a Process (at)first,
initially, begin byContinuing the Process
second, third step, until, after(ward), then, next later, before, when, while, as soon as, as, upon, during, meanwhile
Ending a Process finally, at last
Checklist
A process paragraph or essay: explains how to do something in
a series of steps explains how something works
Checklist: The TopicYou don’t have to limit your topic to
concrete practical subjects such as building a doghouse or installing drywall.
You could explain how to plan a budget holiday, prepare for final exams, get a deal on a used car, or revive a romance
Pick a subject you know about and explain the process in logical steps.
Checklist: The TopicConsider all the information your
reader would need in order to follow your instructions.
Avoid topics like how to tie your shoes or how to bake an apple pie which are unlikely to excite a reader.
Checklist: The Topic If you work out regularly, you
might write about the steps to improve physical fitness. If you fish, you might offer advice on how to prepare yourself for a fishing trip.
Write about what you know, and search for a unique slant on your topic.
Before and As you WriteNarrow the topic. Think of whom
you are writing to.Make a topic sentence that clearly
states what your process result will be.
Free write or brainstorm some ideas that might help with the process.
Drop information that is not necessary in the process.
Before and As you WriteMake an outline with the steps of
how you will write it.Write a draft of the process and
use transition expressions to indicate order.
Revise.Proofread to make sure that you
have no errors in grammar or spelling, punctuation, or mechanics.
Assignment
Write a process paragraph. Choose a topic that interests you and that you know about.
Examples How to do something How to reconcile your checkbookHow to select an apartmentHow to travel successfully with
childrenHow to quarrel and win
Read & DeconstructRead the following paragraph.
Create PowerPoint slides that illustrate the process. (Do not copy each sentence; use phrases. You may add images if you finish early.
Example Paragraph
See teacher handout: How to Prepare for a Race
AssignmentHow to shop for a used carHow to quit smokingHow to deter a mugger or
attacker
Assignment
How to make something How to sculpt something in clayHow to make a dressHow to build a deck, bookcase,
or doghouse.
Assignment
How something works How data is transmitted by
computerHow a solar heating system
worksHow a piano worksHow a bad habit developsThe way children learn to talk
AssignmentRequirements Your process must include at least five
steps. Your process must include instructions
for WHAT to do, HOW to do it (if necessary), and WHY to do it (if appropriate)
Your process must show the complexity of the topic. Don’t be simplistic.
THE END
Begin Writing!
