1. Building Paragraphs

2. What is a paragraph?
A group of sentences that focus on one specific topic
Can be developed in the form of a story, a description, an explanation or an opinion

3. The Three Basic Parts of a Paragraph
Topic Sentence
Tells the reader what the paragraph is about
Supporting Details
The main part of the paragraph
Specific details that relate to the topic sentence
Clincher
Closes the paragraph
Reminds the reader that the paragraph is about

4. Four Types of Paragraphs
Descriptive
Gives a single, clear picture of a person, place, thing or idea
Narrative
Gives the details of an event or experience in STORY form

5. Types of Paragraphs Continued
Expository
Gives facts or directions, explains ideas, or defines terms
Persuasive
Expresses an opinion and tries to convince the reader that this opinion is correct

6. Arranging Details Chronological (time) order Spatial (location)
From simple to complex (teaching)
Problem-solution
Sequential order (step-by-step)
Key Points or questions
Alphabetical order

7. Transitions Word and phrases that link ideas together in writing
Show location
Above, behind, into, under
Show time
After, before, soon, next
Compare two things
Similarly, also, likewise
Contrast two things
But, on the other hand, although

8. Transitions continued
Emphasize a point
Again, to repeat, in fact
Conclude or summarize
As a result, therefore, in conclusion
Add information
Additionally, for example, also
Clarify
In other words, for instance

9. Writing Process
Prewriting
First Draft
Edit / Revise
Final Copy