PARAGRAPH WRITING Jati Suryanto S Pd Dipl TESOL

PARAGRAPH WRITING Jati Suryanto, S. Pd. , Dipl. TESOL

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, 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 goldplated heat shields for protection outside the spaceship. In conclusion, gold is treasured not only for its beauty, but also for its utility.

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION �What is a paragraph? �What is the function of the first sentence in a paragraph? �What is the function of the second sentence and the next sentence in a paragraph? �What is the function of the last sentence in a paragraph? �What are the criteria of a good paragraph? �Why should we use such words as “first of all”, “another important…”, and “in conclusion” in the paragraph? �Why should we use such words as “therefore” and “for example” ?

Discussion �What are the criteria of a good topic sentence? �What are the ways to develop supporting sentences?

CRITERIA OF A GOOD TOPIC SENTENCE 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. It should be a sentence. Specific Interesting One sentence Easy to understand Basis for other sentences Brief and simple Comprehensive Understandable There must be opinions rather than facts

THE WAYS TO DEVELOP SUPPORTING SENTENCES �Give examples �Explain the topic sentence �Give the facts �Use signposting. �Consistent with the topic sentence �The same areas with the topic sentence �Describe the topic sentence in detail

Which topic sentences are good? �I can make friends using face book. �Face book is an easy tool to make friends if you know to benefit it. �English is very important so I want to learn English. �Studying English is not difficult if you follow several steps.

Write a topic sentence for each of the following topics. Remember to include both a topic (main idea) and a controlling idea. �Paragraph I _______________________________________________________ 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 after noon siesta 4 on an outdoor patio 5 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.

Paragraph 1 Which is the best topic sentence? 1. America is one of the country in the world which adapt many custom from the other countries. 2. Americans have many ways to spend their free time based on habits from the other Countries. 3. Americans adoption relaxing habit from the other countries. 4. The kinds activity of Americans people in the warm climate, adaption from other countries 5. 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. 6. Americans people habit to spend their free time for relaxing.

Write a topic sentence for each of the following topics. Remember to include both a topic (main idea) and a controlling idea. 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 after noon siesta 4 on an outdoor patio 5 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.

Write at least three supporting sentences for each topic sentence (examples, facts, descriptions, classifications, causes and effects, or comparison). I love eating food from different countries. � A. _____________________________ � B. _____________________________ � C. _____________________________ � D. _____________________________

Write at least three supporting sentences for each topic sentence (examples, facts, descriptions, classifications, causes and effects, 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.

Write at least three supporting sentences for each topic sentence (examples, facts, descriptions, classifications, causes and effects, or comparison). Summer is a favorite season. �a. ___________________________ �b. ___________________________ �c. ___________________________ �d. ___________________________

Write at least three supporting sentences for each topic sentence (examples, facts, descriptions, classifications, causes and effects, or comparison). There are several ways to conserve electricity. �a. __________________________ �b. __________________________ �c. __________________________ �d. _________________________

Write at least three supporting sentences for each topic sentence (examples, facts, descriptions, classifications, causes and effects, or comparison). There are several reasons why we should study English. �a. _________________________ �b. _________________________ �c. _________________________ �d. _________________________

Write at least three supporting sentences for each topic sentence (examples, facts, descriptions, classifications, causes and effects, or comparison). There are several differences between living in the city and living in the village. �a. _________________________ �b. _________________________ �c. _________________________ �d. _________________________

Write at least three supporting sentences for each topic sentence (examples, facts, descriptions, classifications, causes and effects, or comparison). Indonesian government seems to fall in enabling people to live prosperously. �a. _________________________ �b. _________________________ �c. _________________________ �d. _________________________

Peer review QUESTIONS 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? YES NO

TOPIC SENTENCE FEEDBACK QUESTIONS 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? YES NO

Parts of a Paragraph �Topic Sentence �Supporting Details �Closing Sentence

Kinds of Paragraphs �Definition �Classification �Description �Compare and Contrast �Sequence �Choice �Explanation �Evaluation �Cause and Effect �Exemplification �Argumentation

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.

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. The following words can help you to write a good 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. The following words can help you to write a good description paragraph: �Helper Words: � Properties � Measurement � Analogy � Location

Description Paragraph �size �length �is like �in �color �width �resembles �above �shape �mass/weight �below �purpose �speed �beside �near �north/east/south/west

Description Paragraph 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.

Description Paragraph 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 �both �also �too �as well �while �the other hand �however �but �in contrast �differs from �unlike

Compare and Contrast Paragraph 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.

Compare and Contrast Paragraph 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. �in the beginning �before �then �after �finally �at last �subsequently �recently �previously �afterwards �when �after

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 �belief �idea �understanding �I think that �I consider �I believe �it seems to me �I prefer �like/dislike �hope �feel

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 �since �as a result of �is due to �therefore �as a result of �consequently �hence �it follows that �if. . . then

Explanation Paragraph 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.

Explanation Paragraph 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 �correct / incorrect �moral / immoral �right / wrong �important / trivial �suggest �recommend �advise �argue

Evaluation Paragraph 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.

Evaluation Paragraph 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 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? NO

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.

DEFINITION PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE ROUTINE Routine is a regular and habitual way of working of 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.

DEFINITION PARAGRAPH 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.

DEFINITION PARAGRAPH 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…….

DEFINITION PARAGRAPH WRITING � � � � � Soccer Chest Democracy Love A paragraph An Essay Global warming UMY Pingpong Batik Globalization Westernization Pluralistic society Freedom of speech UNO UNESCO 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 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 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 Space exploration should be stopped. Was Picasso a great painter? Automobile pollution in Jakarta is a major problem. Aerobic exercise is not good for women. 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? 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

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 Proposal: Prostitution should not be legalized. Reasons for: _________________ Reasons against: ____________ 2. The world would be better with one language. Reasons for: ______________ Reasons against: ____________ 1.

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.

EXAMPLE OF REFUTATION �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.

EXAMPLE OF REFUTATION � 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 I propose recommend urge insist that the killing of whales be stopped.

PATTERNS TO CITE A SOURCE OR STATISTICS According to Based on information from the United States government , …………

PATTERNS TO INTRODUCE HT EMAIN REASON AGAINST The opponents of … Those who disagree with this proposal argue assert declare claim say take the position that…………… …

POSSIBLE PATTERN TO SUMMARIZE It is essential important necessary vital urgent that the killing of the whales be stopped

BRAINSTORM IN GROUPS GIVE REASONS TO SUPPORT AND TWO REASONS NOT TO SUPPORT 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. People should be allowed to carry guns. Abortion should be legal. The world would be better if all world leaders were women. The government should not support any religion. People under thirty should not be permitted to marry. The government should not give money to help poor people. Chinese should become the new international language. The death penalty is a good punishment for murderers. Human are basically good. 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

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. X and Y (criterion 2) A. Supporting detail B. Supporting detail C. X and Y (criterion 3) A. Supporting detail B. Supporting detail 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 a. Supporting detail b. Supporting detail 2. Y A. Criterion 1 a. Supporting detail b. Supporting detail A. Criterion 2 a. Supporting detail b. Supporting detail 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 in contrast, Most conversely, mammals on the other don’t lay eggs; all reptiles do Kuwait is Egypt in regard to oil supply. hand, however, on the contrary, Different from Unlike Egypt, Kuwait has large suppliers of oil.

LANGUAGE PATTERNS TO SHOW CONCESSION Even though Although Despite the fact that In spite of the fact that (while) (Whereas) the TV is good, the movie is better. 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 Green Island is beautiful; similarly, likewise, in the same way, Brazil’s Island of St. Sebastian is extremely 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 The effect of smoking European countries: Pattern: Topic sentence: Effect: low Topic sentence: Cause: smoking birth rate habits Supporting 1: Cause 1 Supporting 1: Effect 1 Supporting 2: Cause 2 Supporting 2: Effect 2 Supporting 3: Cause 3 Supporting 3: Effect 3

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 unemployment Cause Produce Bring about Is responsible for Leads to Increases Crime. Drug use and inflation occur, Producing Bringing about Causing Crime Is caused by Id produced by Results from Is brought about by Drug use Crime occurs mainly As a result of Because of Due to Drug use EFFECT

WHAT WOULD BE THE EFFECTS 0 F… 1. Poverty? 2. High price of education? 3. Smoking ? WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF …. . 1. Poverty? 2. Divorce? 3. Increasing world population?