Classification Paragraph: Fujita Scale
Read the following paragraph carefully. Answer the questions that follow by typing your responses in the text boxes. You may want to scroll back to the paragraph or print a copy of the paragraph to refer to as you answer the questions. After you complete this exercise, click on Email to email your response to your instructor, or click on Print to print a copy of your work.
The Fujita Scale is used to categorize tornadoes based on their size and intensity. The F0 to F6 categories reflect the amount of damage caused by the tornado and the length and the width of its path. An F0 tornado is a gale tornado with winds between 40 and 72 miles per hour. Some damage to chimneys, tree branches, and signs occurs. An F1 tornado is a moderate tornado with winds from 73 to 112 mph. This speed indicates the beginning of hurricane winds. Mobile homes, moving autos, and garages are displaced. A F2 tornado is a significant tornado with wind speeds between 113 to 157 mph. Considerable damage to the frames of homes and trees occurs. Mobile homes become demolished. An F3 tornado is a severe tornado with winds between 158 and 206 mph. Roofs and walls are torn off houses; most trees are uprooted. An F4 tornado, a devastating tornado, has winds between 207 and 260 mph. Well-constructed homes are leveled; cars are thrown through the air. An F5 tornado, labeled an incredible tornado, occurs with winds speeds between 261 and 318 mph. Strong-framed houses and cars are lifted and carried considerable distances. Steel- and concrete-reinforced structures are badly damaged. Finally, an F6 tornado, labeled as an inconceivable tornado, occurs with winds between 319 to 379 mph. An F6 tornado is very unlikely. If it were to occur, nothing in its path would remain or be recognizable. The F4 and F5 winds that would surround it would produce mass destruction. The Fujita Scale for categorizing tornadoes has been in widespread use since its inception in 1971.
Adapted from: http://www.tornadoproject.com
1. This paragraph classifies tornadoes. What denominators or specific aspects of tornadoes are used in this paragraph?
2. How does the writer introduce each category? Does this technique help achieve coherence? Explain.
3. Does each subtopic have the same kind of secondary details? Explain.
4. Does the paragraph have unity? Explain.
5. How many subtopics appear in this paragraph? Name each subtopic.
6. Does this paragraph have the characteristics of an expository paragraph? Explain.
7. Is the concluding sentence effective? Explain.