4th

• Idea development is essential in writing. This is done by organizing ideas in a logical and clear manner that suits the writer’s purpose. To achieve this, it is necessary to use appropriate grammatical signals or expressions.
• Grammatical signals are writing devices such as transitional devices, connectors, determiners, and repetitions that are used to maintain text coherence. Coherence establishes a logical connection between ideas in sentences and paragraphs. These ideas can be developed through different patterns depending on the writer’s purpose
• Pattern of idea development refers to the structure of writing on how the ideas are being presented. Five of the commonly used patterns of idea development are discussed in this module. These are the general to particular, cause and effect, claim-counterclaim, problem-solution, and persuasion. Let us explore them and their appropriate grammatical signals.
• General to Particular This pattern of idea development discusses the general topic by presenting specific details that support the topic. The writer starts with the general idea stated in the topic sentence. Then, it is elaborated and explained through specific details and examples. In other words, general to particular pattern is a deductive method of organization.
• Cause and Effect This pattern of idea development explains the causes or the effects of something. When a writer presents reasons, he or she is explaining the causes. When a writer explains the results, he or she is explaining the effects.
• Claim and Counterclaim This pattern of idea development refers to the structure of presenting a side of an issue in an argumentative manner. A claim is the writer’s stand on a topic supported by evidences and logical reasoning. Also, the writer presents the counterclaim or the opposite stand of an issue to disprove it through evidences and logical reasoning.
• Problem-Solution This pattern of idea development is used when a writer identifies a problem and addresses it by presenting one or more solutions. A problem refers to the unsatisfactory situation that causes troubles or difficulties. A solution on the other hand, refers to the ways in solving or minimizing the problem.
• Persuasion This pattern of idea development intends to convince the readers to do or believe in something. It allows the writer to express his or her personal viewpoints about a topic to convince the readers. This pattern of idea development is based on opinions and emotions. Below are the grammatical signals to be used in persuasive pattern of idea development.