English Package 1 Paragraph Writing

Creating Paragraphs After sentences, paragraphs are the next building block in organized writing. Paragraphs are essentially grouped sentences revolving around a similar idea or topic. Generally a paragraph is made up of 4-5 sentences. The first sentence is a topic sentence that introduces the topic of the paragraph to the reader. A good topic sentence assumes that the reader knows nothing about your topic. Your topic sentence will usually only offer just enough information to give the reader a general ideas as to what the rest of your paragraph will be about. The next 2 or 3 sentences are the supporting sentences. It is their job to provide more detailed information that is related to the idea you outlined in your topic sentence. Basically, the supporting sentences are there to; 1. Add examples. 2. Compare or contrast ideas. 3. Discuss the cause and effect of your point. 4. Make use of analogies (e.g.: X is similar to Y because.). 5. Tell a story that illustrates the point you are making. 6. Define your thoughts or feelings on the topic. The last sentence (conclusion) is reserved for your final thought. Your final thought is a similar, but usually longer and more detailed version of your topic sentence. It is there to make an impact on the reader after you have informed him of your ideas or information presented in the supporting sentences. If you can organize your paragraphs, using this simple format (topic sentence, supporting sentences, conclusion), then your writing will improve and readers will be able to better understand your thoughts and feelings on a particular topic. Assignment Choose a topic of your choice, and then create your own paragraph complete with a topic sentence, supporting sentences and a conclusion. Topics can be about your favorite movie or activity. It could be about why rap music is better than rock n roll, or it could be about why you enjoy English class. Offer an idea then support it. You will be marked out of 10 for your ability to create a proper paragraph with a topic sentence, supports, and a conclusion. Total Marks: ____/ 10

Topic/Support/Conclusion
The Topic/Support/Conclusion model is the standard for paragraph writing. The Topic Sentence tells the reader exactly what the paragraph will about. The Supporting sentences are the muscle of the paragraph. They provide the hard facts that relate to the paragraphs Claim or Topic Sentence. The Conclusion, re- states the claim in a different manner that also wraps it up into a nice neat package. If you follow these three easy steps (Topic/Support/Conclusion), your paragraphs will be easily understood and your friends and family will be amazed as to how clear and easy to read your paragraphs are. Directions: Work through Parts One through to Five. PART ONE: For the following paragraphs label the following: 1) Topic Sentence 2) All Supporting Sentences 3) Transition Words 4) Concluding Sentence In the world of tomorrow, teaching machines will take in account different learning rates, working only as fast (or as slowly) as the students using them. First, they will offer the child individual attention. Second, they will possibly offer more patience than could be expected from the average teacher. Thirdly, they will offer immediate feedback so that children know how well they are doing and can take pride in their progress. Finally, the machines will help make learning fun. Beavers do a lot of good work when they build their dams in the right places. First, beaver dams slow down the rush of water in brooks and streams. Brooks that otherwise would dry up in the