Patterns of Organization

1. This morning was crazy. My alarm clock was set for PM instead of AM, so I
woke up really late. I just threw on some clothes and ran out the door. I rode my
bike as fast as I could and thought that I was going to be late for sure, but when I
got there everyone was outside and there were firetrucks all lined up in front of
school. I guess somebody pulled the fire alarm before class started. It worked out
though, because nobody really noticed or minded that I was tardy.
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2. Apples and oranges are both fruits, which means that they have seeds inside
of them. Each has a skin, but orange skins are thick and easy to peel. Apple skins
are thinner and do not peel easily. Oranges also contain more acid than apples,
but both fruits are delicious.
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3. Many people think that they can get sick by going into cold weather
improperly dressed; however, illnesses are not caused by temperature- they are
caused by germs. So while shivering outside in the cold probably won’t
strengthen your immune system, you’re more likely to contract an illness indoors
because you will have a greater exposure to germs.

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4. Ragtime music is a term that identifies one style of music that developed at
the turn of the twentieth century. Played primarily by piano, the “Rocking Horse
Rag” is an excellent short sample of ragtime.
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5. Many modern people are turning themselves into social victims. One
example is a Tennessee woman who is suing McDonald’s because she was badly
burned on the chin by a hot pickle in her hamburger. A Canadian woman is
another example. She wants to ban the South Park television show because her
son Kenny is victimized by the show’s Kenny character, who is killed in each
episode.

6. Although few circumstances make us as nervous as speaking in public does,

there are some simple ways to cope. For one thing, use visual aids or handouts, if
possible, to take the focus off you. Also, have a glass of water handy. This serves
two purposes: It’s a prop, and it helps keep the mouth moist for easy speaking. In
addition, stand behind a desk or podium or sit at a table. You’ll feel and look
more relaxed than if you were “freestanding.” Last and perhaps most important,
be yourself. Adopting a more formal style will make you, and your audience, less
comfortable.

7. There were two kinds of fireworks at the show last night. The first was the
skyrocketing type, exploding high up in the air and producing the most dramatic
effects, as well as “oohs” and “ahs” in the audience. The second type, Roman
Candles, shot up separate showers of sparks and colored flames.

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