Paragraphs Today we’re aiming to learn about improving your paragraphing skills. So we meet again! Here’s a question: When do we begin a new paragraph?

Or: when we begin writing about a new topic. Chances are you came up with the answer: when we go on to the next stage in a story. Or: when we begin writing about a new topic.

Nothing wrong with that but we can also use a new paragraph when… We go forward in time. We go backward in time (e.g. a flashback). When we change the place where the action is happening. A different person gives their point of view. A new character joins the story.

Remember, we don’t use paragraphs just in stories Remember, we don’t use paragraphs just in stories. We use them in non-fiction writing, too. E.g. To describe the next stage in a process or sequence. To give a detailed example of what we are writing about. To compare things (for example, the qualities of two makes of DVD player).

Another thing you may not know about paragraphs is that it is best if they begin with a topic sentence. This prepares the reader for the main idea(s) in the paragraph. They also help us to find a particular section again. If we know what part we wish to re-read, we can skim down the page reading the topic sentences.

We’ve talked a lot about expanding your sentences. Now we’re going to look at ways of developing paragraphs. You can develop a paragraph by including several sentences which give lots of description. You can develop a paragraph by supporting some of your ideas with illustrations and examples. Make sure they understand that illustrations doesn’t mean drawings in this context.

The subject differences will be fairly obvious The subject differences will be fairly obvious. They may wish to compare having one teacher for everything with a range of teachers.

Another way we can write a topic sentence is by asking a rhetorical question. We begin by asking a question and then the rest of the paragraph will answer it. For example, So, why did Hitler invade Russia? What is the best way to groom a pony? Why is smoking bad for our health?

Once you have decided what a paragraph will be about you can begin writing it. Don’t forget the work you have done on expanding sentences. On the other hand, not every sentence needs to be expanded. Sometimes short sentences can be very effective. Good writing aims for a mixture of sentence lengths and sentence types. Some will be short, some will be long. Some will be questions some will be statements. Some will be putting forward a point of view and others may be looking at the other side of the coin.

Finally, paragraphs need to be organised into a logical sequence Finally, paragraphs need to be organised into a logical sequence. If you are telling a story or describing a sequence (e.g. a science experiment or a recipe) then the order is provided by the sequence of events. If you are producing non-chronological writing you have to decide on the best arrangement.

Here is a suggested format for those struggling: Paragraph 1 : Introduce yourself, school, class and what you have been reading. Paragraph 2: Overall, what was your reaction to the novel. Perhaps give it a mark out of 10. Paragraph 3: What you enjoyed in the book. Give examples (e.g. favourite part, favourite character) and reasons why. Paragraph 4; Any criticisms or suggestions for improvements. Paragraph 5: Any questions for the author. Paragraph 6: Thank them for their time.

Paragraphs help us to explain our ideas in a logical fashion. Plenary They can help us to explain our ideas in more detail so people understand us better. Paragraphs help us to explain our ideas in a logical fashion. They often begin with a topic sentence. This can be a question. A variety of sentence structures will keep our writing lively!