Modes of Development Practice

So far this year we have addressed four ways to develop an essay-- definition,
cause/effect, process analysis, and compare/contrast. Each of these can be used to
prove a point or influence an audience.
Assignment: For each topic below, develop a thesis then create a plan for how you
could prove your thesis using each mode of development. An example is provided
below.

Example Topic: Extending the school year

Thesis: Although more instructional time is an appealing idea, extending the school
year would ultimately affect students negatively.
Definition: Redefine learning to include free and social time. It can occur outside
the classroom.
Cause/effect: Examine the negative effects of a longer school year (i.e. cost,
student/teacher burnout, and loss of family time).
Process Analysis: Examine the process of making a student hate education.
Compare/Contrast: Compare extended school year to prison time.
Topic #1: Lowering the drinking age
Thesis:
Definition:
Cause/Effect:
Process Analysis:
Compare/Contrast:
Topic #2: Allowing children to participate in pageants like those depicted on
Toddlers and Tiaras.
Thesis:
Definition:
Cause/Effect:
Process Analysis:
Compare/Contrast:

Topic #3: Genetically engineering fruit and vegetables for the sake of appearance
and shelf-life.
Thesis:
Definition:
Cause/Effect:
Process Analysis:
Compare/Contrast:
Topic #4: Requiring all high school graduates to spend a year in the armed services.
Thesis:
Definition:
Cause/Effect:
Process Analysis:
Compare/Contrast:
Topic #5: High schools creating five-year programsas opposed to the usual four
years.
Thesis:
Definition:
Cause/Effect:
Process Analysis:
Compare/Contrast:
Topic #6: Creating regulations that would outlaw corporal punishment in our
country.
Thesis:
Definition:
Cause/Effect:
Process Analysis:
Compare/Contrast:
Topic #7: Basing college placement on the ACT exam.
Thesis:

Definition:
Cause/Effect:
Process Analysis:
Compare/Contrast: