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Developing the Paragraph

The Structure of the Paragraph Using Different Patterns
of Development
Paragraph
The essential unit of thought in your writing.

It may consist of only one sentence or several sentences that develop one main
point.

It may be part of an extended piece of writing or it may be a self-contained mini-

composition.

A Paragraph is used to:

state facts, express ideas, opinions, emotions

develop a single idea called topic

The sentences in the paragraph should help in developing a main idea which may
be expressed in a topic sentence or may be implied only.

Topic Sentence
is the heart of the idea

should not be too general or too limiting

may be placed at the beginning, middle or end of a paragraph

The other sentences should be useful in further explaining the main idea.

Developing the Paragraph 1

 A topic sentence at the beginning of the paragraph helps:
define your objective as a writer

guide you in developing the basic idea

in telling your reader what to expect from the paragraph

The main idea of a paragraph should be supported by:

Facts, statistical data

Details, evidence (for an argumentation article)

Quotations from authoritative persons

Concrete situations, cases to support your main point

All of these helps in emphasizing, clarifying or defending your point.

Patterns of Paragraph Development

1. Description

Developing the Paragraph 2

 Select words to describe details that help your reader to visualize what you are
describing

Two Types:

1. Objective - description from a physical point of view (provide sensory details)

2. Creative Description - creating a mood or dominant impression using colorful,

literary words, idioms (subjective description)

2. Narration
Telling/recounting what happened by presenting a series of events (whether factual
or fictitious)

Use action words to convey the progression of the story

Use dialogue or quoted material to make the action come to life

3. Exposition

Developing the Paragraph 3

 A paragraph that explains and clarifies the topic sentence

Develops the main idea by using comparison and contrast, definition, cause and
effect, classification and division and exposition of a process

When comparing, remember that

To compare is to point out similarities and to contrast is to point out differences

You should have a set of criteria as basis of comparison or contrast.

For example, compare people based on age, looks, or academic achievement

Classification - groups together objects, information, even people according to

types or classes based on their similarities.

Exposition of a Process - often used to explain a procedure or steps required to

do something, using chronological narration.

Developing the Paragraph 4

 Cause and Effect - used to explain the causes behind certain conditions or
situations. You can focus on the causes of a situation and then consider the effects.

This is useful in showing relationships among certain conditions or occurrences.

Analogy - comparing something abstract or unclear to something familiar. Objects

compared usually belong to different classes yet have fundamental similarities.

Developing the Paragraph 5