Point, proof, explanation Paragraphs
A paragraph must include: Topic sentence (outlines topic of paragraph) Body (states argument, gives proof, provides explanation) Concluding sentence (restates topic sentence in a fresh way)
Choose one of the short stories we read in class, and… Your topic Choose one of the short stories we read in class, and… prove three traits a main character possesses
Example of topic sentence Your topic sentence should include the following: The title and author of the short story The name of the character you are writing about The three character traits you will prove Example: In the Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”, Snow White is beautiful, kind and innocent. Notice the story title is in quotation marks
Point, proof, explanation Use this structure to make an argument and support it You will use this method in your English classes throughout high school and it can be useful in other disciplines as well
First: Make a point Example: Snow White is beautiful. Use a transition word to show you are starting a new point. To start, Snow White is beautiful.
Second: Give proof Use an example as proof For example, this is shown when the evil queen’s mirror says that Snow White is the fairest.
Third: explain Why is this example important? So what? How does it help prove your point? This example proves that Snow White is ranked the most beautiful in all the kingdom because an all-powerful mirror states she is the fairest.
Add two more points, proofs and explanations Transition, Point #1 Proof Explanation Transition, Point #2 Transition, Point#3
Concluding sentence Sum up your topic in a fresh, new way In conclusion, throughout their fairy tale, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”, the Brothers Grimm portray Snow White as a pretty, nice and trusting character. State the title and author again Try using new words for the character traits
11 sentences total Topic Sentence Transition, Point #1 Proof Explanation Transition, Point #2 Transition, Point#3 Concluding Sentence