1. Academic Writing Course Working at the paragraph level July 2012

2. Overview of paragraph module Topics to be covered: Paragraph construction Types of paragraph General to specific Problem/solution Paragraph issues * using definitions * internal flow – linking words * using articles * summary words

3. Types of paragraphs – general to specific Used in introductions and discussions General structure a. topic sentence (general) b. then more specific statements c. support/examples from the literature d. summary or lead in to next paragraph Exercise: Academic Writing (Bailey) pg. 80

4. Topic Sentences How to start a paragraph? General statements, statement of facts or definitions General opening statements e.g. Over the years interest in the economic benefits of meetings tourism has been growing. Statements of facts e.g. In the last decade, HIV/AIDS drugs have been produced much more inexpensively allowing access by individuals with low incomes.

5. Topic sentences Definitions Biotechnology, a multi-disciplinary field drawing from molecular biology, biochemistry and genetics, is a rapidly growing science.

6. Topic sentences…. Definitions - Commonly used - can be full sentences e.g. We define the haplotype percentage as the ratio of known haploids to the total ploidy. or part of sentence e.g. The haplotype percentage, defined as the ratio of known haploids to the total ploidy, is an important measure in genetic diversity.

7. Topic sentences…. Definitions Commonly used phrases: Refers to…. Defined as… Is known as …. Exercise on definitions pg. 53 in Swales & Feak (LI & I)

8. Topic sentences Which type? Generalization, facts or definitions Personal choice but in all cases should be general Try pg. 48 of Swales and Feak

9. Types of paragraphs – problem/solution Used in introduction towards the end where you build up to your hypothesis/central argument. General structure: Situation – current claims Problem – reasons for why more information is needed Solution – other ways of looking at the problem/leading into research question or argument

10. Problem/Solution An example: Literature review ending with….the following: These studies indicate that a more accurate percentage for English would be around 50% rather than 80%. (situation and summary sentence) However, so far no major international study exists to corroborate such a conclusion. (problem) In an attempt to gain an understanding of the global picture of language use, we present the findings of the first international survey of English in research and scholarship.

11. Problem/solution paragraphs You can use a number of phrase to introduce the problem to which your paper offers a solution. It is not clear, however, whether…. Despite this, little progress has been made… Nevertheless, the issue of clarity remains….. It has not been determined…. There is some question…. We need to know…. Another issue raised is…. Current studies provide little information…..

12. Problem/solution paragraphs Do you use this type of paragraph? 1. Analyze the sample articles 2. HOMEWORK: Analyze your manuscripts for opening statements, type of paragraph, etc.