Definition and description are two very important concepts which have been discussed in the two first lessons of the first book of reading. Here I have provided you with further explanation of these concepts.

Defining:

a. A paragraph that precisely explains what something is or

how it looks or works, its purpose, etc.

b. This type of paragraph answers the question, “What do

you mean?” For example, what do you mean by “Biblical

authority”? Requires at least a paragraph, and more

likely a whole book, to explain your version.

c. Topic sentence identifies the subject and the focus of the

definition. For example, I will the term “university”

differently for an architect than for a student.          

d. Causes us to consider what we are discussing, who we

are discussing it for, and why. Need to define terms,

ideas, etc. for readers who do not have the same

knowledge or understanding that you have. For example,

I would briefly define my use of the term “hermeneutics” in

a journal article, but I would carefully define it in a second

year Biblical studies class.

Describing:

a. Can be used to explain an object, event, person, process,

position, express and clarify thoughts and emotions,

strengthen your conclusions of narrating and other

paragraphs.

`b. Topic sentence ought to identify and provide your central

impression, approval or concern about the event, person,

idea, or institution that you are describing. For example, “I

am pleased with our pastors’ friendliness and at the same

time concerned that their exclusion of the congregation

from decisions shows a lack of respect.”

c. This type of paragraph causes us to think in more detail

about a person,