Methods for Writing Extended Definition

1. Methods for Writing Extended Definition English III

2. What is Extended Definition? An essay that explores and explains an abstract concept Defining the concept supports a larger idea or argument Ex: Defining “true love” to convince someone they need to break up with their loser boyfriend.

3. Using a variety of methods A variety of methods allows complex discussion exploration of the concept from many sides consideration of ideas beyond the surface

4. Comparison Consider how the concept you chose is similar to something more concrete, or familiar to your reader Explain specific similarities between the two Ex: True love is like a garden. Both require careful tending to thrive. A garden needs sunshine, water, and some hands to pull weeds. True love requires time, understanding, and mutual admiration.

5. Comparison

6. Negative Comparison Pick two SIMILAR concepts and explain the defining differences Ex: Infatuation and love are very different, although sometimes people confuse the two. The difference is that infatuation isn’t as deep; it is often based soleyon physical attraction. Love, on the other hand, involves a commitment of mind, body, and spirit.

7. Negative Comparison The two ideas are similar, but have important differences

8. Narrative Tell a story to explain some aspect of the concept Use descriptive details, characters, setting, and other storytelling techniques to draw the reader in on an emotional level Ex: My parents were 17 when they met. He was the captain of the basketball team. She was the head cheerleader. Mom likes to say that Dad was interested in someone else at the time, but she was able to steal him away. After 40 years of marriage, this little detail still makes her smile.

9. Narrative An example, told as a personal story Let me tell about a time when…

10. Cause or effect Explain what causes contribute the existence of the concept Explain the effects of that concept Ex of cause: True love comes from shared loyalty, from common goals, and from something else that is powerful, yet intangible. Ex of effect: If it’s true love, you will feel empowered, not belittled in your relationship

11. Cause or effect

12. Analysis Explain the parts that make up the whole Explain how those parts work together Ex: True love is one part physical, and two parts emotional. Without either of those elements, love cannot exist.

13. Analysis

14. Categorization (classification) Identify different types or categories of the concept Be sure the types you identify are clearly different from one another Ex: There are several types of love, including familial love, deep friendship, commitment to an idea or thing, and true love. The strongest, however, is true love.

15. Classification

16. Examples Describe how the concept looks in real life by pointing to an existing example Can be a real example or a fictional example Other methods may also incorporate examples (narrative is also example, or you could use examples to clarify negative comparison) Would be considered its own method if you went into great detail. Ex: Katniss’s love for Peta is true because she sees and respects the beauty inside of him. She is willing to be loyal to and sacrifice herself for him.

17. Using example Connect to abstract concept

18. Tying it all together All methods used should support your overall idea or argument about the concept The definition should help people see the abstract concept beyond superficial though – may challenge people’s thinking on the subject Intentionally use transitional words, phrases, and sentences between methods Use your introduction and conclusion to tie all the methods together Tone should reflect understanding of your audience