Building Body Paragraphs Copyright © 2016 by Write Score LLC

Writing Standard Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content. Use precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.

What is a body paragraph? A body paragraph is used in an essay to support the thesis statement. A Body Paragraph Consists of: Topic Sentence: is the main idea of the body paragraph lets the reader know what the following information will be about Textual Evidence: provides the reader with concrete evidence to support topic sentence should be the STRONGEST evidence found throughout the passage set must be cited does not need to be an entire quoted sentence; rather, short phrases combined with your own words. Elaboration: makes a connection between the topic sentence and the textual evidence explains how the textual evidence supports the point being made in the topic sentence provides additional details Concluding Statement: wraps up all ideas mentioned in the paragraph relates back to the topic sentence

Use your notes from the planning lesson to help you identify textual evidence for the body paragraphs. Refer to your thesis statement to determine the structure of the rest of your essay.

Turn and Talk With your partner, discuss the following questions: Why is it important to elaborate on textual evidence? What is similar between the topic sentence and the concluding statement?

Independent Practice Prompt: Write an explanatory essay for the school’s STEM Magazine in which you explain the effects of digital pollution. Your essay must be based on ideas and information that can be found in the passage set. Task: Using your handouts from Days 1-3, build your body paragraphs. You must include: Topic Sentence At least 2 pieces of Textual Evidence Elaboration for all Textual Evidence Concluding Statement