Paragraph Basics

Basics of Writing a Paragraph

Paragraph

Definition

A paragraph states a point.

It contains details about the point.

The details explain and expand the point’s meaning.

Paragraph Cont’d.

Characteristics

Well-focused topic sentence

Unified and specific supporting details

Transitional and concluding sentences

Overview

• Identifies the content of the paragraph

• Makes a point about the topic

• Connects to the previous paragraph

• Explain the topic sentence

• Support the topic sentence with evidence

• Draw the paragraph to a close

• Lead to the next paragraphConcluding or

Transitional Sentences

Topic Sentence

Topic Sentence

Identifies a focused meaning of the paragraph

Makes a point about the topic

Connects to other paragraph sentences

Supporting Details

Supporting Details

Explain the topic sentence

Show multiple supports

Create unification

Ending Sentence

Transitional and Concluding Sentences

A transitional sentences moves the reader from one point in the paragraph to another.

The concluding sentence closes the paragraph and transitions to the next paragraph.

TOPIC SENTENCEOne of my favorite desserts is cake.

SUPPORTING DETAILSDetail 1--First order support –Tell me more. I love all cakes. If you pushed me to tell you which cake is my favorite, I would say chocolate.

Detail 2 -- Second order support---Because…When I think of chocolate, my mouth waters because of its savory taste and complex flavors.

Detail 3 -- Third order support—So that…As far as I am concerned, the combination of taste and flavor sends me into euphoria.

CONCLUDING AND TRANSITIONAL SENTENCESCertainly, chocolate cake ranks high on my list as a favorite dessert. While I am very fond of it, I place chocolate moose track ice cream in the top position. Perhaps, I have a bias towards chocolate desserts.

Resources

Need Additional Resources?

See the All Nations Leadership Institute website at http://allnationsleadershipinstitute.org. Go to the Student Services tab and find other resources in the drop-down menu such as Student Support and Student Tutorials

Find other supplemental information on your ANLI course website.