What is a paragraph?
A paragraph is
a distinct section of writing covering one topic.
A paragraph will
usually contain more than one sentence. A paragraph starts on
a new line. Sometimes, paragraphs are indented or numbered.
... It will have detailed sentences in the middle and end with a concluding
sentence.
The function of a
paragraph
The paragraph is the
basic unit for organizing information in your writing. You use paragraphs to
structure information in all of your exam and assignment essays and short
answer questions. If you write well-constructed paragraphs, then the
reader/marker will be able to understand what it is that you are trying to
explain. If you write poorly constructed paragraphs, then the marker has to go
on a ‘treasure hunt’ to find information—the perfect recipe for losing those
valuable marks.
Step by step tips for how to write an essay
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Using the paragraph hamburger to make writing easier.
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Writing for success in the TOEFL test.
The essential grammar rules for TOEFL essay writing.
Everything you need to know about the rules of capitalization.
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Using connecting words for essay writing.
Spelling rules for writing in English.
Formal versus informal English.
The structure of a paragraph
A paragraph has a distinct pattern that you can use to structure your writing. It is made up of a group of sentences that contribute to developing ONE main idea.
1. Topic sentence (The first
paragraph of the sentence)
The topic sentence states the main idea of the paragraph to be discussed. It is
really a summary of the content of the paragraph. Topic sentences are extremely
important as they affect the 'sense' of your writing (how well your marker will
understand what you have written).
2. Supporting sentences (3 to 6 sentences to support the topic
sentence)
The supporting sentences develop the topic sentence / main idea.
Here you give details to support the claims you made in your topic sentence.
You get the most of your marks from the supporting sentences because they
contain your arguments and research evidence.
3. Concluding sentence (Optional)
The (optional) concluding sentence signals the end of the paragraph
and reinforces the important points made in the supporting sentences. If you
use a concluding sentence, you need to make sure that you 'round up' a result
from your discussion. If you have nothing left to say, then DON’T just repeat
the topic sentence for the sake of it. You don’t have to have a concluding
sentence.
Steps for paragraph writing
Step1 — Brainstorm and write an outline
When
writing a paragraph, first brainstorm and write an outline of the paragraph and
include:
·
the topic
·
supporting information.
Step 2 — Write the topic sentence
Plan
and then write a topic sentence.
Step 3 — Write supporting sentences
Next,
write a supporting sentence for each point that you brainstormed and chose to
include in the paragraph. Use facts or examples to support your points.
Step 4 — Concluding sentence
Finally,
write a concluding sentence, to sum up the paragraph.
I
hope that you find this article helpful in your endeavors to teach/learn how to
write a great paragraph.
Good
luck and good teaching/learning.
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