1. How to Write a Paragraph in 5 Steps!
Mrs. Fields

2. 1. State the paragraph’s main idea
Make it clear what you are going to say/argue about the topic!
Make it clear how your point answers the question!!
Include the title and author!
For example:
In Danny Cevallos’ article, “When a monkey takes a selfie…”

3. 2. Begin to support yourself by giving background information
Supply any information to the reader will need in order to understand the quotation and its context
Assume your audience hasn’t read the text you are writing about! Give them enough details so they understand the main ideas.
Don’t get too lengthy! This should be done in 1-2 sentences!

4. 3. Present the evidence: QUOTE THE PASSAGE!
When you directly quote something from an outside source, you put quotation marks around it.
You also must introduce the quote!
For example:
Cevallos states in his article, “But the law—international and domestic—is full of grim irony.”

5. 4. “Teach the evidence”
Why do these words matter that you just quoted?
How do they support the point you’ve proclaimed at the beginning of the paragraph?
Never let a quote just stand on its own! You have to explain it in your own words. This shows your ability to analyze the information you read in your own words.

6. 5. Develop your idea
Having explored and explained your evidence, you can now say something more and new about the point you began with.
This will take your reader further into your thinking about your topic.
This helps you analyze instead of summarize!
Imagine this: you’re writing for a smart reader who took this class 2 years ago. Such a reader would not need to be told everything—but would need reminding about the key details you’re dealing with!