Directional Process Analysis
Example
(1)
My husband and I have been stripping lately. Slowly removing layer
upon layer, we delight in what is revealed. Armed with heat gun and
scrapers, we're removing the many coats of paint from the fine
chestnut woodwork in our old house. Refinishing wood may seem like a
difficult undertaking, but by following some simple steps, you can
achieve great results.
Once
you've decided what you'll be working on, assemble the items you'll
need to begin. Depending on the finish you wish to remove and your
preference, you'll be using either a chemical stripper or a heat
gun. A chemical stripper works best when only a few layers need to
be removed, such as a stain and a coat or two of varnish. A heat gun
would be easiest when you must revive several layers of paint. If
you're using a chemical, you will need a generous amount of the
stripper, along with flexible scrapers, fine sandpaper and steel
wool. If you choose a heat gun, you will also need several metal
scrapers, depending upon the size of the section on which you're
working. Regardless of the method you prefer, you'll also want to
have mineral spirits on hand to clean the wood prior to finishing.
After
you've chosen the method you'll use, test an inconspicuous spot
first. Doing so will give you a clue as to the length of time the
stripper must be left on, for instance, or the safest distance to
keep the heat gun from the wood to prevent scorching. Proceed to
over the whole piece, and once you're satisfied that you've removed
all the old finish, sand lightly with fine sandpaper. Vacuum up any
loose dust, and then go over the whole piece with 000-grade steel
wool dipped in mineral spirits. Now you're ready to apply the
finish.
Choosing
the appropriate finish depends on several factors: the quality of
the wood, the style you'd like to convey, and your own level of
expertise. If, for example, after removing several layers of paint
you find that you possess a table of solid mahogany, it would be
foolish to overdo the finishing. A few light coats of varnish,
sanded lightly between coats, will bring out the subtle beauty of
the grain. On the other hand, if you discover that the piece is made
of several different kinds of wood, acquiring a uniform finish can
be a daunting prospect for the beginner. Several painted finishes
exist, by which you can give your creativity free rein. You're most
likely, however, to desire a stained and varnished finish, which is
the most popular finish for wood. Simply apply the stain with a
brush, sponge or clean cloth, and then wipe it off with another
clean cloth. Remember to apply stain sparingly at first, because it
can then be reapplied if you wish to intensify the color. Sand
lightly and apply one or more coats if varnish, sanding lightly
between coats, and the project is complete.
Refinishing wood is not a complicated process. Remember to start
small to gain confidence, express your personal style, and be
prepared for compliments on your terrific job.
(2)
Changing a flat tire is not a difficult task. Before you begin,
check to make sure that the vehicle is not on an incline and that
the emergency brake is on. Then, gather the following necessary
items from the trunk of the car: spare tire, jack, lug wrench, and a
block of wood. Next, place the block of wood under a tire to prevent
the vehicle from moving should the emergency brake fail. After
removing the hubcap, use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on
the hub of the flat tire. Do not remove the lug nuts at this time.
Next place the jack in an appropriate position and jack up the
vehicle to a point where the flat tire is free to rotate. Now,
remove the lug nuts and the flat tire from the wheel. Then, place
the spare tire on the wheel and screw the lug nuts on, but do not
tighten them. Finally, slowly lower the car with the jack. Once the
tire is grounded, tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench and
replace the hubcap. You can now remove the block of wood and return
all the items used to change the flat to the trunk before driving
away.
You should note that
the body of this paragraph is a step by step explanation of how to
change a flat tire. You should also recognize the use of
transitional words (underlined) which allow the reader to understand
when one step has ended and another step is about to begin. This
directional process explains how to perform a task.
Informational Process Analysis
The following paragraph is an informational
process analysis. The body of this paragraph is a step by step
explanation of how Congress enacts legislation.
Note the particular words and phrases that signal
when one step in the process has ended and another step is about to
begin. These words and phrases (underlined) are
transitional
devices which allow the process to move to its logical
conclusion.
Passing a bill
through Congress is a complex activity. First, the bill
is introduced by one or more members of either the House of
Representatives or the Senate. Next, it is referred to an
appropriate committee for consideration. If the committee
approves the proposed legislation, it is reported to either the
full House or the Senate. It is then debated and a vote
is taken on final passage. If approved, the bill is referred to
the other house of Congress for its consideration. Then,
if both houses approve identical versions, the legislation is
passed. But, if differences exist in the versions
approved by the Senate and the House, a conference committee is
appointed to resolve those differences. The report of the
conference committee is then voted on by both Houses, and, if
the report is approved, the bill is sent to the President for
his signature. At this time, the President either
signs the bill or vetoes it. If signed, the measure becomes law.
However, if the bill is vetoed, the Congress can override
the President's action by a 2/3 vote of both houses.
