Paragraph Writing

PARAGRAPH WRITING
Jati Suryanto, S.Pd., MA.

Gold, a precious metal, is prized for two important
characteristics. First of all, gold has a lustrous beauty that
is resistant to corrosion". Therefore, it is suitable for jewelry,
coins, and ornamental purposes. Gold never needs to be
polished and will remain beautiful forever. For example, a
Macedonian coin remains as untarnished today as the day
it was minted twenty-three centuries ago. Another important
characteristic of gold is its usefulness to industry and
science. For many years, it has been used in hundreds of
industrial applications. The most recent use of gold is in
astronauts' suits. Astronauts wear gold-plated heat shields
for protection outside the spaceship. In conclusion, gold is
treasured not only for its beauty, but also for its utility.
Gold, has characteristics.
Gold, has important characteristics.
Gold, has two important characteristics.

characteristics.
characteristics. First of all, gold has a lustrous beauty
that is resistant to corrosion". Therefore, it is suitable for
jewelry, coins, and ornamental purposes. Gold never needs
to be polished and will remain beautiful forever. For
example, a Macedonian coin remains as untarnished today
as the day it was minted twenty-three centuries ago.
Another important characteristic of gold is its usefulness
to industry and science. For many years, it has been used
in hundreds of industrial applications. The most recent
use of gold is in astronauts' suits. Astronauts wear gold-
plated heat shields for protection outside the spaceship. In
conclusion, gold is treasured not only for its beauty,
but also for its utility.
characteristics. >>>>> topic sentence
Gold is prized for two important characteristics.
Gold has two important characteristics.
Gold has two characteristics.
Gold has characteristics. >>>>> main idea
TOPIC + CONTROLLING IDEA

FACT + OPINION
Gold, a precious metal, is prized for two important characteristics.
First of all, gold has a lustrous beauty that is resistant to corrosion".

Therefore, it is suitable for jewelry, coins, and ornamental purposes. Gold
never needs to be polished and will remain beautiful forever.
For example, a Macedonian coin remains as untarnished today as the day it

was minted twenty-three centuries ago.
Another important characteristic of gold is its usefulness to industry and

science. For many years, it has been used in hundreds of industrial
applications.
The most recent use of gold is in astronauts' suits. Astronauts wear gold-
plated heat shields for protection outside the spaceship.
In conclusion, gold is treasured not only for its beauty, but also for its
utility.
Americans relaxing at home, for example,
may put on kimonos, which is a Japanese
word. Americans who live in a warm climate
may take an afternoon siesta4 on an outdoor
patio5 without even realizing that these are
Spanish words. In their gardens, they may
enjoy the fragrance of jasmine flowers, a word
that came into English from Persian. They
may even relax on a chaise tongue while
sipping a drink made with vodka, words of
French and Russian origin, respectively.
Americans often duplicate the words from the
other countries. They take the words from different
Countries and those words are used in their daily
activities. Americans relaxing at home, for example,
may put on kimonos, which is a Japanese word.
Americans who live in a warm climate may take an
afternoon siesta4 on an outdoor patio5 without even
realizing that these are Spanish words. In their
gardens, they may enjoy the fragrance of jasmine
flowers, a word that came into English from Persian.
They may even relax on a chaise tongue while sipping
a drink made with vodka, words of French and
Russian origin, respectively.
Write at least three supporting sentences for each topic sentence
(examples, facts, descriptions, classifications, causes and effects,
or comparison).
Example:
I am terrible at doing the laundry.
I often shrink my favorite shirts because I leave them in
the dryer for too long.
I forget to separate the colored clothes from the white
ones and sometimes end up with gray underwear.
I rarely read the cleaning instructions and have rained
things that should have been dry-cleaned by putting in
the washing machine.
or comparison).
I love eating food from different countries.
A.__________________________________________________________
B. __________________________________________________________
C. __________________________________________________________
D. __________________________________________________________
or comparison).
I love eating food from different countries.
I often eat pizza.
In Jogja, I can buy it at Pizza Huts.
I like pizza because I am vegetarian.
For example, I often order pizza without animal material such as prawn or beef.
I like eating kebab.
I eat kebab because I like lamb.
………….
…………..
I prefer hotdog.
…………….
…………….
In short, like other people in Jogja, I like pizza, kebab, and hot dog which is not
original from Indonesia.
I love eating food from different countries. I
often eat pizza. In Jogja, I can buy it at Pizza
Huts. I like pizza because I am vegetarian. For
example, I often order pizza without animal
material such as prawn or beef. I like eating
kebab. I eat kebab because I like lamb.
……………………… .………………………… I prefer
hotdog ………………
…………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………….. In short, like other
people in Jogja, I like pizza, kebab, and hot
dog which are not original from Indonesia.
or comparison).
Summer is a favorite season.
a. _____________________________________________________
b. _____________________________________________________
c. _____________________________________________________
d. _____________________________________________________
or comparison).
There are several ways to conserve electricity.
a. ___________________________________________________
b. ___________________________________________________
c. ___________________________________________________
d. __________________________________________________
or comparison).
There are several reasons why we should study

English.
a. __________________________________________________
b. _________________________________________________
c. __________________________________________________
d. __________________________________________________
or comparison).
There are several differences between living in the city and living
in the village.
a. __________________________________________________
b. __________________________________________________
c. __________________________________________________
d. _________________________________________________
or comparison).
Indonesian government seems to fall in enabling people to live

prosperously.
a. __________________________________________________
b. __________________________________________________
c. __________________________________________________
d. _________________________________________________
Review on Paragraph
Parts of a Paragraph
Topic Sentence
Supporting Details
Closing Sentence

Topic Sentence
What is the topic sentence?
The topic sentence is the first sentence in a paragraph.
What does it do?
It introduces the main idea of the paragraph.
How do I write one?
Summarize the main idea of your paragraph. Indicate to the reader what
your paragraph will be about.
Example:
There are three reasons why Canada is one of the best countries in
the world. First, Canada has an excellent health care system. All Canadians
have access to medical services at a reasonable price. Second, Canada has a
high standard of education. Students are taught by well-trained teachers
and are encouraged to continue studying at university. Finally, Canada's
cities are clean and efficiently managed. Canadian cities have many parks
and lots of space for people to live. As a result, Canada is a desirable place to
live.
Supporting Details
What are supporting sentences?
They come after the topic sentence, making up the body of a paragraph.
What do they do?
They give details to develop and support the main idea of the paragraph.
How do I write them?
You should give supporting facts, details, and examples.
Example:
There are three reasons why Canada is one of the best countries in the
world. First, Canada has an excellent health care system. All
Canadians have access to medical services at a reasonable price.
Second, Canada has a high standard of education. Students are
taught by well-trained teachers and are encouraged to continue
studying at university. Finally, Canada's cities are clean and
efficiently managed. Canadian cities have many parks and lots of
space for people to live. As a result, Canada is a desirable place to live.
Closing Sentence
What is the closing sentence?
The closing sentence is the last sentence in a paragraph.
What does it do?
It restates the main idea of your paragraph.
How do I write one?
Restate the main idea of the paragraph using different words.
Example:
There are three reasons why Canada is one of the best countries in the
world. First, Canada has an excellent health care system. All Canadians
have access to medical services at a reasonable price. Second, Canada
has a high standard of education. Students are taught by well-trained
teachers and are encouraged to continue studying at university. Finally,
Canada's cities are clean and efficiently managed. Canadian cities have
many parks and lots of space for people to live. As a result, Canada is a
desirable place to live.
TOPIC SENTENCE FEEDBACK
QUESTIONS YES NO
1. Is the topic sentence ‘a sentence’ ?
2. Is the topic sentence explainable?
3. Does the topic sentence contain a topic?
4. Does the topic sentence contain a controlling
idea?
Peer review
QUESTIONS YES NO
Do all supporting sentences explain the topic

sentence?
Does the paragraph use sign posting (such as
‘first’, ‘second’) and conjunctions so that the
paragraph is easy to understand?
Are there many grammatical mistakes in the
paragraph?
Does the paragraph have a conclusion?
Kinds of Paragraphs
Definition
Classification
Description
Compare and Contrast
Sequence
Choice
Explanation
Evaluation
Cause and Effect
Exemplification
Argumentation
Definition Paragraph
When writing a definition paragraph, you take a thing

or an idea and explain what it is.
Example:
Write a paragraph giving the definition of a pest.
Definition Paragraph
The following words can help you to write a good
definition paragraph:
1. "is defined as"

 A pest is defined as any animal or plant that damages crops,
forests, or property.
2. "is a kind of"

 A pest is a kind of animal or plant that damages crops,
forests, or property.
Classification Paragraph
When writing a classification paragraph, you group things or ideas

into specific categories.
Example: Write a paragraph discussing two types of energy
resources.

classification paragraph:
Helper Words:
 is a kind of
 can be divided into
 is a type of
 falls under
 belongs to
 is a part of
 fits into
 is grouped with
 is related to
 is associated with
Classification Paragraph
is a kind of
Coal is a kind of non-renewable resource.
can be divided into
Energy resources can be divided into two types.
is a type of
Coal is a type of non-renewable resource.
falls under
Coal falls under the category of non-renewable resources.
belongs to
Coal belongs to the category of non-renewable resources.
is a part of
Coal is a part of the category of non-renewable resources.
fits into
Coal fits into the category of non-renewable resources.
is grouped with
Coal is grouped with non-renewable resources.
is related to
Coal is related to other non-renewable resources.
is associated with
Coal is associated with other non-renewable resources.
Description Paragraph
In a description paragraph, you are writing about what a
person, place, or thing is like. Sometimes, you may
describe where a place is located.
Examples:
Write a paragraph describing what a polar bear looks like.
Describe where Canada's industry is located.

description paragraph:
Helper Words:
 Properties
 Measurement
 Analogy
 Location
size shape
length mass/weight
is like below
in purpose
color speed
width beside
resembles near
above north/east/south/west
Properties
size
Example: Polar bears are big in size.
colour
Example: Polar bears are usually white in colour.
shape
Example: Polar bears have a special shape.
purpose
Example: The purpose of the polar bear's fur is to keep it warm.
Measurement
length
Example: The length of a polar bear's claws is 20 cm.
width
Example: The width of a polar bear's head is about 50 cm.
mass / weight
Example: Polar bears weigh up to 650 kg.
speed
Example: Polar bears can swim at a speed of 40 km per hour.
Analogy
is like
Example: A polar bear is like other bears in shape.
resembles
Example: A polar bear resembles other bears in shape.
Location
in
Example: Most of Canada's manufacturing is located in Ontario and Quebec.
above
Example: The ceiling is above us.
below
Example: Most of Ontario is below Hudson Bay.
beside
Example: Quebec is located beside Ontario.
near
Example: Many companies are located near Toronto.
north / east / south / west
Example: Ontario is west of Quebec.
Compare and Contrast Paragraph
In a compare and contrast paragraph, you write about

the similarities and differences between two or more
people, places, things, or ideas.
Example:
Write a paragraph comparing the weather in
Vancouver and Halifax.
Helper Words:
Similarities Differences
 is similar to the other hand
 both however
 also but
 too in contrast
 as well differs from
 while unlike
Similarities
is similar to
Example: Spring weather in Vancouver is similar
to spring weather in Halifax.
both
Example: Both Vancouver and Halifax have rain in the
spring.
also
Example: Halifax also has a rainy spring season.
too
Example: Halifax has a rainy spring season, too.
as well
Example: As well, Halifax has rainy spring season.
Differences
 on the other hand
Example: On the other hand, winter is much colder in Halifax.
 however
Example: However, winter is much colder in Halifax.
 but
Example: Vancouver has a mild winter, but Halifax has a cold one.
 in contrast to
Example: In contrast to Vancouver, Halifax has a cold winter.
 differs from
Example: Halifax differs from Vancouver by having a cold winter.
 while
Example: While Vancouver has a mild winter, Halifax has a cold
winter.
Sequence Paragraph
In a sequencing paragraph, you are writing to describe

a series of events or a process in some sort of order.
Usually, this order is based on time.
Example:
Write a paragraph outlining how a person becomes the
prime minister.
Helper Words:
Order Time
 first, second, third, etc.  recently

 in the beginning  previously
 before  afterwards
 then  when
 after  after
 finally
 at last
 subsequently
Sequence Paragraph
Order
first, second, third, etc.

Example: First, you need to become a leader of a political party. Second, you need to win a seat in
the House of Commons. Third, your party must have a majority of seats.
in the beginning
Example: In the beginning, you need to become a leader of a political party.
before
Example: Before becoming the prime minister, you need to become the leader of a political party.
then
Example: Then, you must win a seat in the House of Commons.
after
Example: After winning a seat in the House of Commons, you must make sure you have a majority
of seats.
finally
Example: Finally, after all these steps, you can call yourself the prime minister.
at last
Example: At last, you can call yourself the prime minister.
subsequently
Example: Subsequently, you must make sure you have a majority of seats in the House of
Commons.
Sequence Paragraph
Time
recently
Example: She was recently elected prime minister.
previously
Example: She is the new prime minister. Previously, she worked as a
lawyer in Toronto.
afterwards
Example: She won the party leadership last year. Afterwards, she won the
election.
when
Example: When she won the party leadership, she was still working as a
lawyer.
after
Example: After winning a seat in the House of Commons, you must make
sure you have a majority of seats.
Choice Paragraph
In a paragraph where you have to make a choice, you
need to choose which object, idea, or action that you
prefer. Often, you will need to give your opinion on a
choice of actions or events.
Example:
Write a paragraph stating whether you would prefer to
play hockey or lacrosse.
Helper Words:
Point of View Personal Opinion
 in my opinion  like/dislike
 belief  hope
 idea  feel
 understanding
 I think that
 I consider
 I believe
 it seems to me
 I prefer
Choice Paragraph
Point of View
in my opinion
Example: In my opinion, hockey is more fun than lacrosse.
belief
Example: My belief is that hockey is more fun than lacrosse.
idea
Example: My idea is that hockey is more fun than lacrosse.
understanding
Example: My understanding is that hockey is more fun than lacrosse.
I think that
Example: I think that I would prefer to play hockey and not lacrosse.
I consider
Example: I consider hockey to be more exciting than lacrosse.
I believe
Example: I believe hockey is more exciting than lacrosse.
it seems to me
Example: It seems to me that hockey is more exciting than lacrosse.
I prefer
Example: I prefer hockey over lacrosse.
Choice Paragraph
Personal Opinions
like/dislike
Example: I like the sport of hockey because it is fast
and exciting.
hope
Example: I hope that I can play hockey in the future.
feel
Example: I feel that hockey is my favorite sport.
Explanation Paragraph
In an explanation paragraph, you need to explain how

or why something happens. Very often in social studies
class, you will be asked to explore causes and effects of
certain events.
Example:
Write a paragraph explaining why so many Europeans
moved to Canada during the nineteenth century.
Helper Words:
Cause Effect
 because  therefore
 since  as a result of
 as a result of  consequently
 is due to  hence
 it follows that
 if . . . then
Cause
because
Example: People moved to Canada from Europe during the
nineteenth century because they had poor living conditions in
Europe.
since
Example: Since living conditions in Europe were terrible, many
people moved to Canada.
as a result of
Example: People moved to Canada from Europe as a result of poor
living conditions in Europe.
is due to / was due to
Example: The large influx of people to Canada was due to economic
pressures in Europe.
Effect
therefore
Example: Living conditions in Europe were terrible. Therefore, many people moved to
Canada for a better life.
thus
Example: Living conditions in Europe were terrible. Thus, many people moved to Canada
for a better life.
consequently
Example: Living conditions were terrible in Europe. Consequently, many people moved to
Canada.
hence
Example: Living conditions were terrible in Europe. Hence, many people moved to Canada.
it follows that
Example: Living conditions were terrible in Europe. It follows that many people moved to
Canada.
if ... then
Example: If living conditions were better in Europe, then fewer people would have moved
to Canada.
Evaluation Paragraph
In an evaluation paragraph, you make judgments
about people, ideas, and possible actions. You need to
make your evaluation based on certain criteria that you
develop. In the paragraph, you will state your
evaluation or recommendation and then support it by
referring to your criteria.
Example:
Write a paragraph evaluating whether pesticides
should be used on farms.
Helper Words
Criteria for Evaluation Recommendation
 good / bad  suggest
 correct / incorrect  recommend
 moral / immoral  advise
 right / wrong  argue
 important / trivial
Criteria
good / bad
Example: The use of pesticides such as DDT is bad for the environment.
correct / incorrect
Example: The belief that pesticides must be used is incorrect.
moral / immoral
Example: The use of pesticides to control pests is immoral because it
harms the environment.
right / wrong
Example: It is wrong to use pesticides because they harm the
environment.
important / trivial
Example: The issue of pesticides is an important one because it affects
the environment.
Recommendation
suggest
Example: I suggest that pesticides should not be used to control
pests.
recommend
Example: I recommend that pesticides should not be used
because they are harmful to the environment.
advise
Example: I would advise farmers not to use pesticides if
possible.
argue
Example: I would argue that pesticides should not be used
because they harm the environment.
EXPLANATION PARAGRAPH
Jati Suryanto, S.Pd, Dipl.Tesol

PARAGRAPH FEEDBACK
QUESTIONS YES NO
1. Do the supporting sentences at least have 3
points?
2. Is every point elaborated by at least one
sentence?
3. Are there sentences that do not support the
topic sentence?
4. Does the paragraph contain the sentence
connectors and sign postings? (first, second,
next, furthermore, additionally, finally, in
conclusion etc?)
5. Is there a conclusion of the paragraph?
As academician…
You have to be able to write explanation paragraph
which can:
Explain a process (how to do something or how
something works)
Define a term
Make a concept clear
EXPLAINATION PARAGRAPH
TYPES OF
EXPLANATION PARAGRAPHS
Definition/clarification paragraph
Process paragraph
DEFINITION PARAGRAPH
DEFINITION/CLARIFICATION PARAGRAPHS
It defines words or ideas and makes those words or
ideas clearer for a reader.
It is used to explain concepts, synthesize reading or
demonstrate knowledge of the course.
DEFINITION PARAGRAPH IS DIFFERENT
FROM PROCESS PARAGRAPH IN THAT…
They are not organized chronologically.
Although the connectors first, second etc can be used, these connectors do
not necessarily indicated either time or importance. Often they simply
indicate the number of points to be made.
They do not tell “how to”. Instead they answer the question “what?”.
What does……mean?
What does……look like?
What is…..?
What ways are there to…..?
What kinds of…..are there?
Often present points of equal value and interest.
These points are supported by facts, examples, personal experience, and
physical description.
EXAMPLE
ROUTINE
Routine is a regular and habitual way of working or doing things. Some
people are very much pleased by the routine of their lives. They like it
when nothing breaks the even course of their existence, and they feel
strangely unprotected when something upsets their routine. These people
are usually very faint-hearted, and it is difficult for them to adapt
themselves to a new way of life. However, more interesting people find
routine a vicious circle. As a rule, there people have very rich imaginations,
and when their routine life becomes unbearable, they escape to a different
dimension, to the world that they have invented themselves. But not all
people who find themselves inside the vicious circle of routine what to live
outside it. There is another kind of person who finds routine burdensome,
but at the same time, these people know how to carry their burden. As
their outward lives are routine, their inner thoughts never stop.
EXAMPLE
KENDO
Kendo is a kind of Japanese fencing which I practice and enjoy. It is a
form of traditional ‘budo’ sports. Many Japanese high school
students learn this sport. They compete in tournaments all over
Japan for prizes. The main equipment for kendo is a stick made from
a special tree called ‘take’. Participants in kendo wear protective gear,
including helmets to protect their heads and padded clothing.
Kendo is a fight between two people; often the participants are
injured. But it is not only a game of power; it is also a game of spirit.
When I practice kendo, I react instinctively. I also feel spiritual
power when I win. I am like many people in my country because I
enjoy the challenge of kendo. It improves both my body and my
spirit. I hope this popular Japanese sport will expand to the U.S.
EXAMPLE
ORIGAMI
Origami, the Japanese art of paper folding which originated in China,
is a very inexpensive and rewarding hobby. Traditionally, origami
figures are always made by folding, not cutting or pasting. For
example, good-luck animals such as cranes, tortoises and lobsters can
be made by simply folding a piece of perfectly squared paper. Origami
is very inexpensive; only paper is necessary, and any paper can be
used. Moreover, inexpensive gifts, such as earrings, can be made by
folding small cranes and attaching pins or loops through the crane’s
backs. Origami is also extremely rewarding; using the imagination,
one can develop his creativity by turning a plain, simple piece of paper
into a fish, a frog, or a house. The greatest reward, however, is that
origami can be enjoyed by every member of a household.
EXPLANATION PARAGRAPH CONNECTORS
FUNCTIONS CONNECTORS
Introductory First, the first…
Additional information and, furthermore, moreover, in
addition, also….
Expected information So, of course, naturally, surely….
Clarifying information In fact, as a matter of fact, that is, in
other words…
Example signals For example, for instance, to illustrate
…..
Conclusion signal Therefore, to conclude, in conclusion,
in summary, to summarize…….
WRITE A DEFINITION PARAGRAPH
USING ONE OF THE TOPICS BELOW:
Soccer Batik
Chest Globalization
Democracy Westernization
Love Pluralistic society
A paragraph Freedom of speech
An Essay UNO
Global warming UNESCO
Ping pong Pancasila
PROCESS PARAGRAPH
PROCESS PARAGRAPH
Describes how to do something
For examples; how to write a good paragraph, how to
play football, how to apply for university admission.
PROCESS PARAGRAPH
Is organized in chronological order:
Choose a topic that is narrow enough to be described
in complete detail for your intended audience
Give details of the process in the correct order
Give reasons for the order (if appropriate)
Include negative directions (or warnings) if necessary
Use chronological connectors to help the reader
PROCESS PARAGRAPH
Chronological connectors:
Sentence Introducer: First….Second……Then….After

that…..Finally…..
Time introducers:
…..before…..after……when…..while…..until…..
during…..
EXAMPLE AND EXERCISE
TOPIC SENTENCE: After you have prepared the garden soil, you need to follow a
procedure for planting the seeds.
1. Choosing the seeds
A. flowers or vegetables?
B. early and late species.
2. Planning the planting
A. what to plant where
B. why?
3. Follow directions on the seed packet
A. Soak before planting?
B. depth to plant
C. watering the planted seeds.
Concluding sentence : If you follow this process, you will surely have a successful
garden.
EXAMPLE
Because I am a curious person, I take every chance I get to
travel and learn about different countries and customs. Before
I leave on a trip, I prepare myself for the new country by
reading about it. I investigate the things I am interested in
and, later, I can compare my opinions about the country
before and after my visit. When I arrive in the country, I try to
find places outside the regular tourist attractions so that I will
come in contact with the native people who can often tell me
more about the country than the tourist guides. In addition, I
try to stay with a native family while I am visiting a country;
in this way, I discover more about the country and, usually,
more about myself.
QUESTIONS
With a small group of classmates, write a title for this
paragraph?
What process is this paragraph explaining?
With the group, modify the topic sentence of this
paragraph so that it more accurately reflects the
paragraph.
Underline the chronological time connectors in this
paragraph.
PROCESS PARAGRAPH
EXAMPLE
MAKING ETHANOL IN INDONESIA
Ethanol can be produced from the fermentation of some crops
that contain starch: corn, wheat, sugar cane, and in Indonesia,
sweet potatoes and especially, cassava. In the process of converting
cassava to ethanol, the first step is milling (reduction of the size of
the particles). Next, the milled particles are cooled; the cassava is
cooled; the cassava is hydrated, and its starch is gelatinized.
Following that step, the starch is converted by enzymic hydrolysis
into sugars, and then the ethanol from the sugars, including
limited dextrin conversion, is fermented. In the final step, the
ethanol is recovered through distillation, and the cassava residues
are recovered by evaporation and waste treatment.
PROCESS PARAGRAPH
EXAMPLE
THE GREENHOUSE EFFECT
Trapped heat in the atmosphere of the earth results in the
greenhouse effect, but how does it happen? First, the sun warms the
earth and then heat is trapped by certain gases in the atmosphere
that act like the glass in a greenhouse. Usually this heat is essential
to prevent freezing temperatures on earth, but as the levels of these
gases are increased, more heat is created than is necessary. Yet that
is exactly what is happening on earth today. The rising level of gases
comes from two major man-made sources: chlorofluorocarbons and
carbon dioxide. The amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
has grown more than 25% since the Industrial Revolution, and over
11% since 1959. As a result of the raised level of these two gases,
“global warming” is occurring; the earth is getting warmer.
WRITING AN EXPLANATION PARAGRAPH
How to learn English effectively
How to write an effective paragraph
How to write an effective essay
How to be a successful student
How to keep healthy
How to study effectively
How to overcome stress
How to choose a good boarding house
How to make ‘nasi goreng’
How to operate a computer
How to search information on ‘Google’
How to make friends on the ‘facebook’
ARGUMENTATIVE
PARAGRAPH
Jati Suryanto, S.Pd, Dipl. TESOL
ARGUMENTATIVE PARAGRAPH
Aims to change the way the reader thinks
Aims to influence the reader to do something.
Generally the writer wants the reader to: 1) accept or
reject an idea, 2) realize that action should be taken to
solve a problem, 3) try a new way of doing something.
WAYS TO PERSUADE READERS
The writer gives evidence to support his or her
viewpoint.
Consider the best argument against his or her
viewpoint that an opponent might have.
Refute that argument by showing why it is wrong,
weak or of lesser importance.
Formula of an argument process =
PROPOSAL = (writer’s ideas + evidence) +
(opponent’s argument + refutation + evidence).
LOOK AT THE FOLLOWING PARAGRAPH
EXAMPLE
Additional classes in the afternoon for better preparation of
having the final exam for high school students are superfluous.
To begin with, some people argue that this program assist the
students to face the exam. However, this argument is groundless
since students have had their daily class which is sufficient to
face the test. Moreover, most parents think that such a program
is not effective at all as this is just wasting time and energy. As a
result, it is evident that children are reluctant to come and join.
Indeed, this condition really never gives any positive
contributions for the improvement or progress in studying to
students. Therefore, it is essential that the additional classes in
afternoon for high school students be stopped.
DISCUSSION
What is the proposal (topic sentence) of this
argumentative paragraph?
How is the paragraph outlined?
How many paragraph does the writer use to support
the proposal?
What does the opponents of the argument say?
What is the writer’s refutation on the opponent’s
argument?
ARGUMENTATIVE PARAGRAPH OUTLINE
Proposal/topic sentence.
Argument 1
Opponents opinion and your refutations (argument 2).
Argument 3
Conclusion
CRITERIA OF A GOOD ARGUMENTATIVE
PROPOSAL
It is not a neutrality.
The writer must demonstrate the necessity of reading
the writer’s proposal.
The writer should avoid obvious proposals, e.g. : “Are
there biological differences between males and
females?”.
WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING SENTENCES ARE
GOOD PROPOSAL
1. Space exploration should be stopped.
2. Was Picasso a great painter?
3. Automobile pollution in Jakarta is a major problem.
4. Aerobic exercise is not good for women.
5. Young children should not be allowed to eat too much
sugar.
6. Indonesians love money.
7. Life in Sahara desert is difficult.
8. Should Chinese women with more than one child be
sterilized?
REASON FOR AND REASON AGAINST
PROPOSAL: All handguns sales should be prohibited.
REASON FOR (PROS):
Would decrease violent crimes
Would save taxpayer money (fewer police)
Would help create a better social environment
REASON AGAINST (CONS):
Would restrict individual freedom (a person could not
buy what he or she wanted).
Write three reasons for and one main reason
against each of the following proposals
1. Proposal: Prostitution should not be legalized.
Reasons for:__________________________________
Reasons against:_______________________
2. The world would be better with one language.
Reasons for:___________________________
Reasons against:_______________________
THE REFUTATION
In an argumentative paragraph, it is important that you
present the opponents reasons.
Then you have to refute them:
1. Method: Demonstrate that your opponent’s reason is
wrong because it is based on incorrect or misleading
information.
2. Method 2: Show that your opponents’ reason is weak
because it is based on insufficient information or ignores
significant information.
3. Method 3: Agree that your opponent’s reason is valid, but
show that your points of support are more compelling.
EXAMPLE OF REFUTATION
Proposal: Gun selling should be banned.
MAIN REASON AGAINST: Would restrict individual
freedom ( a person couldn’t buy what he or she
wanted).
ATTACK AND REFUTATION: The opponent is
partially right – freedom to buy would be restricted,
but freedom from fear and freedom of movement
would be increased.
LOOK AT THE FOLLOWING EXAMPLE OF
REFUTATIONS
Proposal: Workers should not be forced to retire at age sixty-five.
…………………………………………..
Those who disagree with this proposal point out that as people
grow older their bodies begin to slow down, and it is risky for
them to continue working. Actually, this is true in only one
respect-they body does slow down. However, accident rates for
those over sixty-five are slightly less than those for people under
sixty-five. How can we explain this? Simply, workers over sixty-
five have far more experience in their jobs than younger workers,
and workers over sixty-five are far more aware of their limitations.
Proposal: Abortion should be legal.
Main reason against and refutation:
………………………………………………………………………………………
“Pro-life” people argue that abortion is the killing of a potential
human being. This is undeniably true. Nevertheless, as has been
pointed out, if abortion is illegal, there will be; 1) a dramatic
increase in unwanted, neglected, and abused children; 2) the
number of women who die getting illegal, unhygienic abortions
will increase greatly; and 3) women will lose what they have
fought so hard for- the basic right to control their own bodies.
These three points outweigh the argument of the pro-lifers.
Proposal: Sex education is appropriate for sixth grade in the United States.
Main reasons against and refutation:
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….
The opponents of this ideas claim that most eleven-year-olds have not
seen information about sex; therefore, teaching them sex education would
put the idea of sex into their minds. Nothing could be further from the
truth; most eleven-year-olds have been exposed to sex long before the
sixth grade. For example, the January 1998 Neilsen TV rating showed that
two of the show most heavily watched by eight-and then- year-olds were
‘Seinfeld” and “friends – both of which contain a heavy dose of sexual
content. These and other TV shows, combined with drugstore sex
magazines, “R” –rated movie, and even “sexy” comic books, expose
children to sex long before they are in the sixth grade.
LANGUAGE PATTERNS FOR THE
ARGUMENTATIVE PARAGRAPH
propose
the killing of
I recommend that whales be
urge stopped.
insist
PATTERNS TO CITE A SOURCE OR
STATISTICS
According to information from the
United States government ,
……………………
Based on
PATTERNS TO INTRODUCE HT EMAIN
REASON AGAINST
The this argue that……………
opponents proposal assert …
of … declare
Those who claim
disagree say
with take the
position
POSSIBLE PATTERN TO SUMMARIZE
It is essential that the killing of
important the whales be
necessary stopped
vital
urgent
BRAINSTORM IN GROUPS
GIVE REASONS TO SUPPORT AND
TWO REASONS NOT TO SUPPORT
1. People should be allowed to carry guns.
2. Abortion should be legal.
3. The world would be better if all world leaders were women.
4. The government should not support any religion.
5. People under thirty should not be permitted to marry.
6. The government should not give money to help poor people.
7. Chinese should become the new international language.
8. The death penalty is a good punishment for murderers.
9. Human are basically good.
10. It is usually more difficult for a man to work at a job (outside
the house) than for a woman to work at jobs inside the house.
COMPARISON AND
CONTRAST PARAGRAPH
JATI SURYANTO, S.Pd., Dipl. TESOL
Colorado snow conditions are much better than Japanese snow
conditions for downhill skiers like me. First, Colorado mountain
snow is drier than Japanese snow. For example, in ski areas like Vail
and Aspen, I can’t make a complete snowball because the snow isn’t
sticky enough, but in Japanese ski areas, making snowballs is easy.
The drier snow in Colorado has two advantages: my clothes stay dry
even when I fall, and my skis move through the ‘powder’ snow
quickly because they do not stick. In addition to the quality of the
Colorado snow, the weather conditions make the ski season both
more pleasant and longer in the U.S. Most Japanese ski areas open
in the middle of December and close in mid-March, but Colorado
skiers can begin skiing in November, and sometimes the ski areas
are open until the end of April. Moreover, ski areas in Japan are
known for their cloudy, damp weather, but in Colorado, the bright
sun and dry weather make it possible to ski comfortably, sometimes
even in shorts and shirt! For these reasons, many Japanese skiers
dream of coming to the U.S. to ski.
Colorado snow conditions are much better than Japanese
snow conditions for downhill skiers like me. Most Japanese
ski resorts have wet, sticky snow; I can easily make snowballs
with it, but it is not easy to ski on wet snow. Moreover, the ski
season in Japan is short and now always pleasant; most areas
are open in mid-December and close by mid-March, and the
weather at these resorts is generally cloudy, damp, and
consequently very cold. In Colorado, however, conditions are
far better. First, Colorado snow is dry; for example, in ski areas
like Vail and Aspen, I can’t make a complete snowball because
the snow isn’t sticky enough. This dry snow has two
advantages: my clothes stay dry even when I fall, and my skis
moves through the “powder” snow more quickly because they
do not stick. In addition to the quality of Colorado snow, the
ski resorts open early in November and sometimes stay open
until the end of April, giving skiers a long season. Finally, the
bright sun and dry weather in Colorado make it possible to sky
comfortably, sometimes even in shorts and a shirt! For these
reasons, many Japanese skiers dream of coming to the U.S. to
DISCUSSION FOR BRAINSTORMING
COMPARE AND CONTRAST
Dogs and cats
Your language and English
Your mother and your father
Your hometown and Yogyakarta
Newspapers and magazines
Your two favorite musicians
Your life now and your life in ten years ago
Your best friend and yourself.
Driving a car and riding a motorcycle.
Love and hate
QUESTIONS TO DISCUSS
Answer the following questions:
With a small group of classmates, decide which of the
two paragraphs is organized according to the basic
point outline. Which is organized according to the
alternative point outline?
With your group, decide which is more effective. Use
specific detail to support your opinion.
Write a point paragraph outline for one of the two
paragraphs.
COMPARISON AND CONTRAST
COMPARISON: identifies and analyzes similarities
between two persons, places, things and ideas.
CONTRAST: Identifies and analyses differences
between two persons, places, things or ideas.
BASIC COMPARISON/CONTRAST POINT PARAGRAPH OUTLINE
TOPIC SENTENCE (x is preferable to Y)

A. X and Y (criterion 1)
A. Supporting detail
B. Supporting detail
B. X and Y (criterion 2)
C. X and Y (criterion 3)
CONCLUDING SENTENCE
Example
TOPIC SENTENCE: I prefer travelling by ship to traveling by

plane.
1. The longer time on the ship is more restful than an airplane
trip.
A. Ship: a change of pace form my daily life
B. Plane: hurried just like my daily life
2. Ship travel is a more interesting time than air travel.
A. Ship: swimming, playing games
B. Plane: sitting, reading
3. The variety of people on a ship is entertaining.
A. Ship: meet many different people
B. Plane: meet only one seatmate, perhaps.
CONCLUDING SENTENCE: For all these reasons, if I had a
choice, I would travel by ship.
THE ALTERNATIVE PATTERN OF COMPARISON AND CONTRAST
Topic Sentence
1. X
A. Criterion 1
a. Supporting detail
b. Supporting detail
B. Criterion 2
2. Y
A. Criterion 1
A. Criterion 2
Concluding sentence
EXAMPLE OF ALTERNATIVE PATTERN
Topic: studying English with a private tutor is more helpful than studying in an
English class.
1. Studying with a private tutor (X)
A. Student has opportunity to assimilate information at his/her own pace
(rate or learning)
B. Student participates orally during the last half of each class (participation)
C. Student can make and achieve individual goals (meeting goals).
2. Studying in an English class (Y)
A. Student must progress at the rate of the class (rate of learning)
B. Student may be able to participate during only a small percentage of the
class (participation)
C. Student must accept class goals (meeting goals).
Concluding sentence: After investigating the advantage above, I have decided
to stop taking English classes and hire a private tutor.
LANGUAGE PATTERN TO SHOW CONTRAST
Most in contrast, all reptiles do

mammals conversely,
don’t lay eggs; on the other
hand,
however,
on the contrary,
Kuwait is Different from Egypt in regard to oil
Unlike supply.
Different from
Unlike Egypt, Kuwait has large suppliers of oil.
LANGUAGE PATTERNS TO SHOW
CONCESSION
Even though the TV is good, the
Although movie is better.
Despite the fact that
In spite of the fact
that
(while)
(Whereas)
The TV show is good; nonetheless, the movie is better.
The TV show is good; nevertheless, the movie is good.
LANGUAGE PATTERN TO SHOW
SIMILARITIES
Korea’s similarly, Brazil’s Island
Green likewise, of St.
Island is in the same Sebastian is
way, extremely
beautiful; scenic.
TASK
Based on your brainstorming from the discussion,
write a contrast paragraph individually.
You can use either the basic pattern or the alternative
pattern.
Use the language patterns of comparison and contrast
that you have learnt.
Send your paragraph to Pak Jati’s and Pak Endro’s
facebook’s wall.
CAUSE AND EFFECT
PARAGRAPH
JATI SURYANTO, S.Pd, Dipl.TESOL
CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH
MEANING AND CONCEPT
Trace a condition or action from its causes to its
effects, or from effects back to causes.
Example: medical topic—the symptoms and causes of
disease.
Example: informative paragraph on such topics as
hurricanes, global warming and earthquake.
CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH PATTERN
The causes of low birthrate in
European countries:
The effect of smoking
Pattern: Pattern:
Topic sentence: Effect: low birth Topic sentence: Cause: smoking
rate habits
Supporting 1: Cause 1 Supporting 1: Effect 1
SENTENCE PATTERN
Certain prescription drugs are, in part, responsible for
violent behavior among those who use them.
Televising executions would lead to a call for an end to
capital punishment.
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are increasing infections
once thought to be under control.
CAUSE EFFECT
Drug use and Cause Crime.
unemployment Produce
Bring about
Is responsible for
Leads to
Increases
Drug use and inflation Producing Crime
occur, Bringing about
Causing
EFFECT
Crime Is caused by Drug use
Id produced by
Results from
Is brought about by
Crime occurs mainly As a result of Drug use
Because of
Due to
WHAT WOULD BE THE EFFECTS 0F…
1. Poverty?
2. High price of education?
3. Smoking ?
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF …..

4. Poverty?
5. Divorce?
6. Increasing world population?

Paragraph Writing

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Paragraph Writing

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PARAGRAPH WRITING

Jati Suryanto, S.Pd., MA.

Gold, has important characteristics.

Gold, has two important characteristics.

Gold, a precious metal, is prized for two important

Gold is prized for two important characteristics.

Gold has two important characteristics.

Gold has two characteristics.

Gold has characteristics. >>>>> main idea

TOPIC + CONTROLLING IDEA

First of all, gold has a lustrous beauty that is resistant to corrosion".

For example, a Macedonian coin remains as untarnished today as the day it

Another important characteristic of gold is its usefulness to industry and

I love eating food from different countries.

Summer is a favorite season.

There are several ways to conserve electricity.

There are several reasons why we should study

Indonesian government seems to fall in enabling people to live

Do all supporting sentences explain the topic

When writing a definition paragraph, you take a thing

1. "is defined as"

2. "is a kind of"

When writing a classification paragraph, you group things or ideas

The following words can help you to write a good

The following words can help you to write a good

In a compare and contrast paragraph, you write about

In a sequencing paragraph, you are writing to describe

 first, second, third, etc.  recently

first, second, third, etc.

In an explanation paragraph, you need to explain how

Jati Suryanto, S.Pd, Dipl.Tesol

Sentence Introducer: First….Second……Then….After

TOPIC SENTENCE (x is preferable to Y)

TOPIC SENTENCE: I prefer travelling by ship to traveling by

Most in contrast, all reptiles do

WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF …..

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