2. Paragraph structure Writing a paragraph is not a natural skill, but learned skill. Anyone can learn! Simply follow the structure below.

3. WHAT IS A PARAGRAPH? contains a general idea in one sentence – topic sentence 3 - 5 supporting sentences to expand the idea – provide explanation, details and/or examples to support the main idea is a solid block of writing each paragraph has its own section - leave a whole line and start at the beginning of the next line

4. WHY USE PARAGRAPHS? paragraphs are used to separate main ideas a new paragraph signals to the reader that a new idea is about to be discussed the break between paragraphs gives the reader time to take in each idea.

5. HOW IS A PARAGRAPH STRUCTURED? 1.Topic Sentence - this is the first sentence and it expresses the main idea 2. Supporting Sentences - details that expand your main idea 3. Concluding Sentence - a rounding off, possibly by summarizing what has been said or drawing a logical conclusion from it Now, you tell me what the structure is – write it in your books... Check it – right or wrong?

6. HOW DO YOU WRITE A PARAGRAPH? Planning is essential - even in situations where time is limited, you should plan by briefly noting your points.

7. CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING of paragraph structure A) The Commonwealth Government looks after areas of national importance. B) There are three levels of government in Australia. C) Local concerns, such as suburban streets and garbage services are looked after by Local Government. D) The State Government's responsibilities include hospitals, schools and state police forces. Choose which of the following sentences is the topic sentence for a planned paragraph about the Australian Government. (A, B, C or D)

8. Did you guess correctly? A plan can look like this...

9. Sample of the finished paragraph: There are three levels of government in Australia. The Commonwealth looks after areas of national importance such as postal services, foreign affairs, and collecting and distributing taxes. It also supervises the armed forces. The State Governments' responsibilities include hospitals, schools and the state police forces. Local concerns, such as suburban streets and garbage services, are looked after by Local Government. So, in general, the responsibilities of each level of government are appropriate to the geographical area it serves.

10. Sometimes writing sounds jerky when read - you can make your paragraph more flowing Using linking words and phrases such as: also, as well as, firstly, next, then, finally, so thus, as a result, because, therefore, for example, for instance, in contrast, on the other hand Check your work carefully and re-arrange words if necessary The paragraph is basic to most writing styles. It is worth spending some time getting it right

11. Now, your turn... Write a paragraph on one of the following, being careful to create topic sentences, provide evidence and create a conclusion: – School – Chocolate – Friendship – War

12. The Essay

13. Make yours stand out! How?

14. Characteristics? Formal language – no playground slang, no ‘ordinary’ words i.e use as sophisticated a vocabulary as you can No contractions – it’s, won’t, weren’t (write out in full eg it is, will not, were not) Correct punctuation and grammar Cohesive ties between sentences and paragraphs eg however, but, also etc No first person eg I, we, us, our