INSTRUCTOR: TSUEIFEN CHEN TERM: 100-2

 Paragraph Format Paragraph Structure Focus

  A paragraph is a group of related statements that a writer develops about a subject. The first sentence states the specific point, or idea, of the topic. The rest of the sentences in the support that point (p. 3, ch. 1) Paragraph Format

 A topic sentence Several supporting sentences A concluding sentence Paragraph Structure

 The topic sentence tells what topic the paragraph is going to discuss. It is the most important sentence in a paragraph. Topic Sentence

 a topic: the topic names the subject of the paragraph A controlling idea: tells what the paragraph will say about the topic Topic Sentence continued …

  It is usually the first sentence in a paragraph.  Experienced writers sometimes put topic sentences at the end.  The best place is usually right at the beginning because it gives readers an idea of what they will read and helps them understand the paragraph more easily. Position of the Topic Sentence

  A topic sentence should not be too general or too specific.  Go to p. 40 for examples.  Do Practice 2A, B, and C on pp How to Write a Topic Sentence

  They explain the topic by giving more information about it.  They list the main points of the paragraph.  Giving examples is a way of illustrating the supporting point sentences. Examples are good support because they are specific and make your meaning very clear. Supporting Sentences

  Practice 3 on pp (15 minutes for brainstorming and 10 minutes for presentation)  Practice 5 on p. 46 Exercises for Supporting Sentences

  A concluding sentence signals the end of the paragraph and reminds the reader of the main idea.  Not all paragraph need a concluding sentence. A paragraph that stands alone needs a concluding sentence. However, a paragraph that is part of a longer piece of writing doesn’t always need one. Concluding Sentence

  Begin with a conclusion signal. Most conclusion signals have commas after them; others do not.  Remind your reader of the main idea by one of the following methods. 1. Repeat the idea in the topic sentence in different words. Do not jut copy the topic sentence. 2.Summarize the main point of points of the paragraph.  NEVER end a paragraph by introducing a new idea. (p. 47) Three Tips to Write a Good Concluding Sentence

  Go to p. 47 for examples.  Do Practice 6A on pp  Practice 6B on pp as take-home assignment  Practice 7 on p. 49 as in-class exercise. Exercises for Concluding Sentence