Before Reading
Examine Types of Organization in Nonfiction
Review the types of exposition listed on page 915. Didion uses more than one type of organization in this essay. As you read, pay attention to the organization and how it affects Didion's message.
During Reading
Use Text Organization as You Read
1. Listen as your teacher reads the first two paragraphs of the essay aloud. What is the purpose of these two paragraphs? How are they organized? Use sticky notes to jot quick answers to these questions and attach them to these paragraphs.
2. Continue reading on your own. Keep asking yourself: What is the purpose of this paragraph? How is it organized? Use your sticky notes to jot down answers you find.
Fix-Up Idea: Outline Main Ideas
If you are having trouble focusing on the organization of the essay, try to focus on important ideas. With a partner, read each paragraph. Stop and talk about important ideas. When you agree on an idea, write it down. Continue in this way until you have outlined the whole essay.
After Reading
Analyze Text Organization
With a partner, talk about the different kinds of organization you find in the essay. What did Didion achieve by using each type of organization?