Paragraphs

Paragraphs

Writing that is longer than a few sentences is organized into paragraphs.

A paragraph is a group of sentences that all relate to the same topic.

Paragraphs can include different types of information about the same topic.

ParagraphsThe topic of a paragraph is usually stated in the first sentence.

This sentence is called the topic sentence and all other sentences add details about the topic. They are called supporting sentences.

Some paragraphs also have a concluding sentence, which summarizes the ideas of the paragraph (this is the last sentence of the paragraph)

Sample

Follow along as we read the sample aloud. Notice the topic sentence, the supporting details and the concluding sentence.

SampleThe first sentence of the paragraph is indented. Each additional paragraph will begin on a new line with an indented first sentence.

Example:

Topic Sentence

When you write a paragraph the first thing you need to do is to state your main point in one clear sentence called the topic sentence.

The rest of the paragraph should develop and support the point you made in the topic sentence.

The topic sentence is the most important part of your paragraph because it controls all of the other sentences.

Topic Sentence

A topic sentence must do two things:

state the topic (the main idea)

identify the focus (main emphasis)

Topic Sentence

Look at this topic sentence.

Nuclear power is our greatest hope for solving the energy crisis.

What is the topic of this sentence?

What is the focus?

Topic Sentence

Look at this topic sentence.

Nuclear power is our greatest hope for solving the energy crisis.

What is the topic of this sentence? Nuclear Power

What is the focus? Solving the energy crisis

Topic Sentence

Look at this topic sentence.

Nuclear power is a huge threat to life on the planet.

What is the topic of this sentence?

What is the focus?

Topic Sentence

Look at this topic sentence.

Nuclear power is a huge threat to life on the planet.

What is the topic of this sentence? Nuclear power

What is the focus? Threat to life on the planet

Supporting Sentences

Once you have created your topic sentence, you will use the following sentences to support your subject and focus

The supporting sentences can include reasons, facts and examples.

Try to make supporting sentences as specific as possible

Be cautious not to repeat your topic sentence

Sample 1

Our family trip to Costa Rica last summer was very exciting. Everyday we saw something new and different. One day we went hiking. Another day we took a rafting tip down a river. We saw lots of unusual plants and animals that we had never seen before. We did many things that we will never forget. Everyone agreed that this was the best trip we have ever taken.

Sample 2

Our family trip to Costa Rica last summer was very exciting. We were there for two weeks, and not a day went by without something unusual happening. On our second day, a boa constrictor swam right in front of us while we were rafting down the Rio Claro. Another day, spider monkeys threw branches at us deep in the rain forest. Hiking on the primitive trails in Corcovado National Park, we saw brilliant scarlet macaws and toucans with huge yellow beaks. Whenever we look at the picture from out trip, we all agree that it was the most exciting one we have ever taken.

Sample Analysis

Which of the paragraphs provided more specific support?

What supporting details did the author include in the paragraph?

Unity

In addition to writing a clear topic sentence and providing adequate support, you must create unity in your paragraphs.

Every sentence needs to contribute to the main idea.

If a sentence does not relate to the main idea it is irrelevant. You should eliminate irrelevant sentences from your paragraph so you do not confuse the reader.

Sample I love the location of my new house. For one thing, it is in a very safe neighbourhood, and I am not afraid to go out alone. There is almost no crime, and most people do not even lock their doors. In addition, the neighbourhood is in a convenient location. Lots of stores, schools, and restaurants are nearby. Within a few miles, there is also a library, health and fitness centres, and a movie theatre. most of all, I really like the people who live in this area. They are friendly and helpful and seem to want to keep our community safe and clean. My new house is roomy, comfortable, and sunny, but I need to buy some more furniture. I definitely chose a great location to buy a house.

Sample Analysis

What was the topic and the focus of the paragraph?

Was there unity in this paragraph?

What portion of this paragraph, if any, was irrelevant? What information was not related to the topic sentence?

Planning ParagraphsYou can organize your ideas in many different ways, you can use the “hamburger technique”, create a concept map or simply list your ideas on a scrap piece of paper.

The planning of a paragraph is very important so you can stay on track in your writing

Getting in the habit of planning your writing now will make larger assignments more manageable and better thought out.

Hamburger Technique

Concept Map

Topic Sentence

Supporting Sentence #3

Supporting Sentence #2

Supporting Sentence #1

Conclusion

List

Topic Sentence

Supporting Sentence

Supporting Sentence

Supporting Sentence

Concluding Sentence

On Your OwnChoose one of the following topics to develop into a paragraph.

qualities of a good doctor

description of your flag

reasons cigarette advertising should or should not be banned

ways to get good grades

how to prepare your favourite meal

the benefits of having a job that requires a lot of travel

how to make new friends

describe your ideal kitchen

On Your Own

1. Organize your ideas in to a planning technique (hamburger, concept map, list, etc.)

2. Write the topic sentence for your paragraph that has a single focus

3. Write the first draft. Remember to develop each of your supporting points with specific details.