Tools for effective writing: The Basics

The Paragraph Why do we need to learn to write well? Mainly, if we are ever to be heard exactly the way we want to be, we need to learn how to present our message in an effective format Just like anything we value like music, relationships, hobbies, sports, movies, there is a basic structure that supports how to do it and to do it well Paragraphs come in all shapes and sizes What we are going to learn and perfect is an Eight Part paragraph design: Topic Sentence, First Point, Example, Second Point, Example, Third Point, Example, Concluding Sentence Each of these 8 parts is broken down in 3 ways

The Topic Sentence The Three Parts of the Topic Sentence (TS): This includes the Main Topic Gives a statement, idea, opinion about the main topic States the number of reasons Example: (TS) After considering all the foods I like to eat, I decided that Buffalo style chicken wings was my favorite dish for three key reasons. Can you identify the three parts? Never write: (TS) My paragraph will explain why I like Buffalo style chicken wings. The goal for the TS is to introduce your idea on the topic

Try to Identify the 3 Parts of the Topic Sentences (TS) Of all the sports I like to play, softball is my favorite one for a variety of reasons. (TS) There are several key characteristics that I look for when choosing a friend. (TS) When thinking about all the places I like to travel, there are a few reasons why South Korea tops the chart. (TS) Three main points drive why Avatar is my most recent favorite movie. Now it’s Your turn! Take out paper and pencil

The Point Sentences The Three Parts of the Point Sentences (PT): Begins with a transition (with a comma), One of your ideas about your topic that you will prove The main topic/focus restated in new words Your PT’s are often a “because” statement Example: (1st Pt) One, I enjoy eating Buffalo style chicken wings because they taste so good. Never Write: (1st Pt) The first reason I enjoy eating Buffalo chicken wings is because they taste so good. The Goal for the PT is to guide the reader to the specific points you are making about your idea on the topic Transitions—use one group of these for your 3 points: (One, Two, Three,); (First, Second, Third,); (To begin with, Next, Finally,)

Try to identify the three parts of these Point Sentences (1st Pt) To begin with, I love eating Buffalo style chicken wings because they are so spicy. (2nd Pt) Next, being that chicken wings are a great match with my most desirous blue cheese dressing, I thoroughly enjoy “pigging out” on them. (3rd Pt) Finally, I like consuming Buffalo wings because they remind me of where I grew up as a kid. Now it is your turn to try. Pull out paper, something to write with, and give this your best shot!

The Example Sentences The Three Parts of Example Sentences (Ex): These have to be 2 or more sentences long The first sentence must explain your PT and the remaining sentences show a specific detail/event/idea that proves your point It must clearly answer the questions of How and Why the example proves your point on the main topic The Goal for EX’s is to give specific information and details that prove and support your key points on the topic and your ideas

The Example Sentences Continued (EX) Spicy means more flavor and Buffalo style chicken wings fit the bill. There is no greater sensation I get then when I bite into a good, crispy, hot chicken wing fresh out of the broiler that starts to burn my eyes from the spiciness even before I sink my teeth into it. The flavor of these is so consuming that I have to eat as many of them as I can, or until my belly starts to bulge. I have been known to eat 30 or more wings because I find the flavor so irresistible. Hence, I am ready to eat chicken wings any day of the week! Never Write: (Ex) I like spicy food and chicken wings are spicy. I eat a lot of them and like them a lot. Can you identify the three parts of the first example?

Try to identify the three parts of the Example Sentences (Ex.) For example, I take pleasure in acting crazy with two of my closest friends on the team. During games, after we score a goal and we are ahead, we perform a silly ritual of celebration we created. All three of us drop to our knees, roll on the ground, and say, “We better stop, drop, and roll because we are on fire!” If I did not have people to socialize with during the season, soccer would not be as fun as when I have such favorable company. Now it’s your turn to try!

The Concluding Sentence The Three Parts of the Concluding Sentence (CS): Always begins with a transition, States your three main points in the exact same order but in new words (synonyms) Contains the main topic/question Note: the last two parts do not have to come in order! Example: (CS) Consequently, Buffalo style chicken wings are the best food to eat because they have a hot flavor I am fond of, go well with my favorite dressing, and bring up good memories. Never Write: (CS) That’s why I like chicken wings. The Goal for the CS is to remind the reader what your key points were in regards to the topic Transitions: In short, Therefore, All in all, Consequently, In summary,

Try to identify the three parts of the Concluding Sentences (CS) Therefore, playing soccer is a favorite activity of mine because I get an enormous workout, I am happily engaged with my friends, and I am eager to contend and succeed. (CS) In short, an extraordinary friend is someone who makes others laugh, is very dependable, and is always available for others. (CS) Consequently, enticing wild laughter, being extremely reliable, and always supporting others are the traits of an outstanding friend. Now it’s your turn to try!