Writing Development The Paragraph English 1 Adapted from

Writing Development: The Paragraph English 1 Adapted from Ch. 11 of The Elements of Language

The Paragraph • Sentences grouped together to support a single main idea – Each serves one specific purpose • In longer writing assignments, they work together to develop ideas • Organize ideas – Keep ideas separate – Show the connections between ideas • Divide ideas – Essays into topics or thoughts – Stories into scenes or events • A visual sign that a new idea has begun

Parts of the Paragraph • All paragraphs emphasize one main idea – Sometimes, paragraphs will build on each other’s main ideas, such as in academic papers • Three major parts: • A topic sentence • Supporting sentences (two to three) • A concluding (“clincher”) sentence

Structure of the Paragraph Beginning Topic Sentence Supporting Sentence 1 Middle Supporting Sentence 2 Supporting Sentence 3 End Concluding Sentence/Clincher

The Main Idea • Each paragraph must have a main idea – If the main idea is not clear right away, then it will become obvious when the paragraph is read with its surrounding paragraphs • What is the main idea? • “From its early beginnings, Houston has had one advantage which stands above those of all other cities: confidence. Whether threatened by disaster or peril, by disease or economic depression, this city's unflagging confidence—and its residents' confidence in their own abilities—brought it through in triumph. This confidence, evidenced in many ways throughout the years, has paved the path of all progress. ” – adapted from www. houstonhistory. com

The Topic Sentence • The main idea is usually expressed in one topic sentence. – Clarifies the purpose of the paragraph • Topic sentences should be one of the first two sentences – They are usually most effective • Helps the reader know what to expect – Sometimes, a topic sentence will have more impact as the last sentence • Should state the specific purpose of the paragraph without giving away details – Topic + Limiting Idea • In an academic paper, the topic sentence – 1) May not exist – 2) Will relate to thesis statement

Topic Sentences • Dogs have earned their reputation as “man’s best friend” through their loyal, friendly personalities and ability to assist their human masters. • In recent years, student extracurricular involvement has become increasingly important because of competitive college admissions. • Playing sports, such as soccer, is a great way to stay physically fit and relieve stress.

Sample Topic Sentences • Courage is scarce in the novel The Ox-Bow Incident, but when it does appear it comes in the most surprising ways from some of the people who you would most not expect to be courageous. • In The Ox-Bow Incident, courage is vital for doing the right thing because it helps one to have confidence in himself and do the right thing in the face of opposition and discrimination. • In The Ox-Bow Incident, one of themes was to be yourself, meaning you do not have to think about what everyone else thinks of you. • In the Ox-Bow Incident, Tetley Sr. committed suicide because he felt pressure for what he had done, and because he knew that he was guilty and he was probably going to be lynched anyways. • Community definition of Right and Wrong is actually just their personal values because of one’s arrogance and selfishness, one wants to the “right” thing his own way.