Summary

An extended definition gives a fuller, more complex picture of a term than a formal definition can.

An extended definition may be completely objective or it may in­clude the author's ideas and opinions.

An extended definition may be developed by using a variety of methods, such as synonym, metaphor, comparison or contrast, and narrative.

Drafting

1). Choose an idea, an object, or an animal to explain by writing an extended definition.

2). List the class to which the term belongs and its distinguishing char­acteristics. Write a formal definition around which you will build.

3). Think about the term that is the subject of your definition. List all the details that set it off from others in its class. List some synonyms which might be substituted.

4). Think about the parts of your subject. List them. Write what it does or how it is used. Write where it is found. Describe the place or some of the places if there are several. Does it have a history?

5). Think about where your subject is found. Write down details that describe this place, or several of the places if there are more than one.

6). Compare the subject to something similar. Contrast it to something different.

7). Recall an experience you or a friend might have had with your subject. Write a summary reminder of the experience.

Composing

Write an extended definition, using your formal definition and the supporting details you have noted. Build your opening paragraph around the formal definition with supporting sentences designed to capture the attention of your reader.

Organize your details into one or more paragraphs. Be sure that your related ideas are grouped together. Write a conclusion that sums up your controlling idea.

Revising

Read your extended definition carefully. As you read, ask yourself the following questions:

• Where is the formal definition located? What is included in its three parts?

• What details are part of the extended definition? How do they clarify and extend the definition? What other details might be added?

• How are the details grouped? How might this grouping be changed in order to make your definition clearer?

• Which words, if any, should be replaced with more specific ones?

• Which methods have been used to develop the extended definition? What other methods might be used to develop the definition further?

Proofreading

Proofread your definition. Follow the steps presented in the Proof­reading Checklist on page 142. Correct any mistakes you have made in organization, spelling, punctuation, and capitalization.

Challenge assignment

1. Look through some of your other textbooks. Choose five technical terms from them. Consulting a dictionary if necessary, write a for­mal definition for each of these terms. Then write an extended def­inition of one paragraph for each term. Base each definition on your reading and experience.

2. Select one of the terms you have defined above and imagine you are trying to explain the topic to a third- or fourth-grader. Rewrite your original definition, using words and phrases that will make it clearer for such a child.