1. Paragraphs-Sample
Gold, a precious metal, is prized for two important characteristics. First of all, gold has a lustrous beauty that is resistant to corrosion. Therefore, it is suitable for jewelry, coins, and ornamental purposes. Gold never needs to be polished and will remain beautiful forever. For example, a Macedonian coin remains as untarnished today as the day it was made 25 centuries ago. Another important characteristic of gold is its usefulness to industry and science. For many years, it has been used in hundreds of industrial applications, such as photography and dentistry. The most recent use of gold is in astronauts’ suits. Astronauts wear gold-plated heat shields for protection when they go outside spaceships in space. In conclusion, gold is treasured not only for its beauty but also for its utility.
What is the topic of the paragraph?
What two main points does the writer make about the topic?
In which two sentences does the writer say that there are two main points?
What examples does the writer use to support each point?
After answering the above questions, can you explain the structure of a paragraph to a partner? Here’s a hint. A paragraph consists of: A. B. C.

2. Paragraphs-Topic Sentences
Topic sentences-All paragraphs have them and in this course they will always be the first sentence in a paragraph-a topic sentences contains the topic and the controlling idea that limits the topic to the specific area to be discussed-it is a general statement and gives no specific ideas-must be a complete sentence with a subject and verb
Ex. Gold, a precious metal, is prized for two important characteristics.
TOPIC CONTROLLING IDEA
Task: Read the following scrambled paragraph. Decide which sentence is the topic
sentence. Then put the rest of the sentences in a logical order.
In time, this melted part rises as magma.
The formation of a volcanic eruption is a dramatic series of events.
As the plate sinks, friction and Earth’s heat cause part of it to melt.
The magma produces heat, steam, and pressure.
First of all, most volcanoes are formed where two plates collide.
Then one of the plates is forced under the other and sinks.
When the heat, steam, and pressure from the magma finally reach the surface of Earth, a volcanic eruption occurs.

3. Paragraphs-Supporting Sentences-With/Without
Task: Compare the following paragraph on gold to the one on Slide 1. Underline the support in that paragraph that was added. Gold, a precious metal, is prized for two important characteristics. First of all, gold is beautiful and tough. Therefore, it is suitable for many purposes. Gold will remain beautiful forever. For example, a coin remains as untarnished today as the day it was made long ago. Another important characteristic of gold is its usefulness. For many years, it has been used in hundreds of applications. The most recent use of gold is in space. Astronauts use it for protection. In conclusion, gold is treasured not only for its beauty but also for its utility.