In a classification essay, you separate things or ideas into specific categories and discuss each of them. You organize the essay by defining each classification and by giving examples of each type.
| Example question: | Write an essay discussing the three types of government in Canada. |
| Introduction: | Give background information about government in Canada. |
| Supporting paragraphs: | 1. Define and describe federal government. |
| 2. Define and describe provincial governments. | |
| 3. Define and describe municipal governments. | |
| Summary paragraph: | Summarize government in Canada. |