Modes of Discourse

Modes of Discourse a.k.a. Organizational StrategiesBack of page: write down your initial, off-

the-cuff thoughts associated with the following terms: narration & description process analysis comparison & contrast division & classification definition cause & effect persuasion & argument

Cathedral by Raymond Carver

Read Cathedral on: Class wiki Or:

http://www.nbu.bg/webs/amb/american/6/carver/cathedral.htm

Modes of Discourse

Narration and Description: Tells the reader a story in order to make a point, using

description to create a mental picture What happened? What did it look like?

Process Analysis: Gives directions and/or provides information How did you do it?

Comparison and Contrast: Helps the reader make a decision between two or more

things or ideas How is it similar or different?

Division and Classification: Categorizes information for analysis What kind of subdivisions does it contain?

Modes of Discourse, cont’d. Definition:

Establishes boundaries, shows the nature of things, or explains something

How would you characterize it? Cause and Effect:

Inform and educate, or provide a basis for argument Why did it happen? What happened next?

Persuasion and Argument: Getting an audience to respond positively to the author’s

suggestion or ideas How can you prove it?

Concept PosterYour group will create a concept poster for your

assigned mode of discourse.1. Write the mode of discourse at the top of the

poster2. Define the mode of discourse3. Give an example from “Cathedral”4. Draw a picture that represents your mode of

discourse

Individual Assignment: Modes of Discourse and Cathedral

A-L M-Z narration & description process analysis comparison & contrast definition

Narration and description division & classification cause & effect persuasion & argument

Create a concept poster for your assigned mode of discourse.

1. Write the mode of discourse at the top of the poster2. Define the mode of discourse3. Give an example from “Cathedral”4. Draw a picture that represents your mode of discourse