Sentence Rhythm

Introduction

Sentence rhythm is a natural part of language development. Most children master the intonation patterns and rhythms of language before they master the words.

Because the patterns and rhythms of our native language are so deeply ingrained, the best way to review writing is to read it out loud. Any lapses in meaning or coherence can then be seen easily.

All good writers use effective sentence rhythm, even those writing about science or engineering. Studying their skills can help us appreciate and even emulate effective sentence rhythm.

As with the other skills we've studied, sentence rhythm is intertwined with parallel structure, precise words, and coherence.

Read some of the following examples, classics of effective sentence rhythm.

Gettysburg.html	Patrick Henry.html	I-have-a-dream.html
Chief Joseph.html	The.Retreat.from.Flanders.html	Wiesel.html

You will notice some common patterns in each of these passages: repetition of key words and phrases, heartfelt convictions, precise words, and parallel structure. All of these contribute to sentence rhythm.

Next, read the passage on killer cells, an excerpt from Popular Science magazine. See if you can spot any of the same elements of sentence rhythm in a biology article.

cell2.htm

Now that you have a feel for effective sentence rhythm, look at the Gettysburg Address in more detail. Click on next to see the original and what might be a typical modern version of the same ideas.

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Click here for an explanation of how good writers use sentence rhythm

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