First Diction Practice Paired Paragraphs

Today, you will be practicing your own diction skills and using some of the strategies you observed as you analyzed the rhetorical choices made by the authors of the Okefenokee Swamp passages.

Your Task: Write a set of paired passages on a single topic. Discuss the same information or events, but use different diction choices throughout each in order to clarify two different purposes, tones, or points of view.

Topics: Select an event, a place, or a concept to define or describe. Try to pick something that is personally significant and somewhat unique -- this will help you avoid cliche and provide plenty of material for description. Write from your experience -- this is not a fiction selection.

Process:
1. Before you begin drafting your paragraph, plan the contrast you will create between the first and second paragraphs. Articulate clearly what feelings, beliefs, values, priorities, emotions, or learning experiences you wish to communicate.

2. Take time to brainstorm every detail you can about the place, event, or idea. Describe the concept with all five senses. Discuss associated ideas or events. 

3.  Make sure both paragraphs are clear, well-organized, and fully developed. Both paragraphs need to be detailed descriptions or discussions, and should demonstrate an ability to write fluently and effectively.