Organization
Essays and paragraphs may be organized according to one or a combination of the following strategies:
Chronological: Uses time sequence; may use flashback or flash-forward for effect
Spatial: As occur in space; flexible but systematic
Emphatic: Builds from least to most important points; emphasis on last, strongest element
Simple-to-Complex: Begins with easily understood concept then moves or builds to more difficult concepts
Patterns of Development used for essays may be used as organizational strategies as well.
Source
Nadell, Judith, Linda McMenimen, and John Lagan. The Longman Writer: Rhetoric and Reader. Brief ed. Boston:
Pearson, 2005. Print.
Also, see:
Friedlander, John. "Principles of Organization." Guide to Grammar and Writing. Capital Community College Foundation. n.d. Web. 21 Aug. 2014. http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/composition/organization.htm
Attachment: Topic sentence exercise from Topic Sentence page; outline of paragraphs with comments regarding organizational integrity.