Essay Body Paragraphs

Body Paragraph The body paragraph is where most of your writing – and your own original thinking - occurs. Expand upon thesis topics. Support thesis with strong text evidence. Analyze/Elaborate from your own original insights. Transition with words/phrases to help connect ideas throughout essay.

Thesis Prompt: In what ways can America reduce its environmental impact through the use of renewable energy? Example Thesis: America can effectively reduce its environmental impact through the use of electric automobiles, decreasing its dependence on fossil fuels, and incorporating a carbon tax on industries.

What parts make up the body paragraph?

Body Paragraph Structure Topic Sentence (TS): State a main point that supports thesis Evidence #1 (EV1): Evidence (facts or quote) to support TS Elaboration/Analysis (EL): Explain how data supports claim. Expand on reasoning/explanation (if needed) Evidence #2 (EV2): Second piece of evidence to support TS Conclusion (CL): Wrap up by summarizing main idea of body paragraph in one or two sentences. Transitional words/phrases are effective.

Body Paragraph Jigsaw Now, open the folder for your group and remove the sentence strips from the plastic sleeve. DO NOT begin until I ask you to. As a group, arrange the sentence strips into the correct order. Focus on creating a cohesive, complete body paragraph by examining each strip for context clues. I will display the body paragraph structure while you work. When you think you have the correct order, call me over to check your work.

Topic Sentence (TS): State a main point that supports thesis Thesis: America can effectively reduce its environmental impact through the use of electric automobiles, decreasing its dependence on fossil fuels, and incorporating a carbon tax on industries. Topic Sentence (TS): State a main point that supports thesis Evidence #1 (EV1): Evidence (facts or quote) to support TS Elaboration/Analysis (EL): Explain how data supports claim. Expand on reasoning/explanation (if needed) Evidence #2 (EV2): Second piece of evidence to support TS Conclusion (CL): Wrap up by summarizing main idea of body paragraph in one or two sentences. Transitional words/phrases are effective.

The Correct Body Paragraph Electric cars can effectively combat air pollution. Because cars are the “largest private source of air pollution,” the decision to purchase an electric car can substantially decrease harmful emissions (Harrison 35). To combat a serious problem, focus should be directed toward the primary source. In fact, steps taken to reduce carbon emissions from the sizeable fleet of private automobiles used every day will have the greatest immediate effect on air pollution. Cars are used to commute to work and to school and to stores and to restaurants; with each and every vehicle replaced by electric alternatives the amount of emissions is immediately reduced. Additionally, the average person in the U.S. drives 33 miles per day and the average electric vehicle has a battery life of 100 miles (Forbes 54). This capacity allows for the average commuter to lessen their impact on the environment without fear of running out of battery life during day to day travel. People will see no impact to how they use their cars for work and school, allowing for no interruption in the necessary routines that make life comfortable. As well, people will see no impact to the freedom to drive recreationally, allowing for greater peace of mind as they enjoy their vehicles without concern for the environment. Therefore, it is possible for the majority of Americans to drive an electric car on a daily basis to reduce their environmental impact.

Final Thoughts Write in 3rd person Your claims and opinions will be clear from your language. You do not need phrases like, "I think" or "I believe." Use transitional language to show relationships between ideas. This is key when creating a cohesive, complete, single piece of writing. Use words like however, despite, even though, although, in contrast, etc.