1. 8-Point Paragraphs
The Journey Begins

2. What is an 8-Point Paragraph?
It is a way to organize and create a well-developed paragraph
Why 8 points?
It has 8 sentences
What are the eight sentences?
Topic sentence
3 Supporting sentences
Each supporting sentence has a detail sentence
Concluding sentence
Why so many questions?
Hey back off I’m trying to teach here 1 3 8 3 1

3. What is the big deal, anyway?
It gives you a map to follow
Paragraph development helps you convey your message
All your semester tests will at least have one question that requires an 8-point paragraph
We want to be better than our rivals

4. RUBRIC TIME! Click here…if you dare.
Here’s a sample…

5. Harry Back
English 9—5th Hour
15 September 2009
Sample Paragraph
The 2009 NFL football season is underway with a select number of teams projected to be serious contenders for a potential Super Bowl title. The New England Patriots will be back with a vengeance this season. After a year plagued with injuries, the Pats return Pro Bowl quarterback Tom Brady to lead them in their attack of the AFC. Also in the AFC, the San Diego Chargers have arguably the best roster from top to bottom. Veteran leadership from the likes of LaDainian Tomlinson and Philip Rivers may guide the Chargers back to their first Super Bowl since the 1994 season. The NFC boasts the talent of the newly upgraded Minnesota Vikings. The addition of quarterback Brett Favre and drafting of wide receiver Percy Harvin have only added to the offensive firepower that boasted Adrian Peterson—last season’s leading rusher in the NFL. The 2009 NFL season will be full of surprises, but the Patriots, Chargers, and Vikings will most certainly be amidst the race for a championship.

6. Your job…
Write an 8-point paragraph answering one of the following questions:
What are the best cell phones?
What are some tips for students beginning high school?
Who are the best (or worst) musical artists?
What are greatest hobbies of all time?