1. Patterns of Organization Denise Stanley

2. Chronological Pattern Illustrates a progression of time, either forward of backward Past-present-future OR before-during-after Best used when a topic is understood best in terms of different segments of time EXAMPLE: Topics of a historical nature lend themselves to this pattern of organization

3. Sequential Pattern (Similar to Chronological Pattern) Arranges information in a step-by-step format that describes a particular process

4. Compare-Contrast Pattern Arranges information according to how two or more things similar in nature are similar to or different from one another (or both) Effective pattern to use when reader can best understand one subject when it is described in relation to another

5. Cause-Effect Pattern Demonstrates important relationships between variables (Effective in persuasive arguments) A.) Divides outline into two major sections comprised of causes and effects; B.) Divides outline according to different causes, with effects of each cause within the larger ‘causes’ section

6. Problem- Solution Pattern Divides information into two main sections: one describing a problem and one describing a solution Purpose it to convince reader to take or support a certain course of action