How to Write a Paragraph - Amazon S3How to Write a Paragraph teaches students the fundamentals of paragraph writing. Students learn the basic structure of a paragraph—topic sentence,

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TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Background .................................................................................................................................. 6

Instructions .................................................................................................................................. 7

Writing a Sentence ....................................................................................................................... 9

Answering a Question ............................................................................................................ 10

Expanding Your Sentences ..................................................................................................... 12

Writing a Paragraph ................................................................................................................... 19

Transition Words Table .......................................................................................................... 20

Writing a Descriptive Paragraph ................................................................................................ 23

Descriptive Paragraph Example—Invention ........................................................................... 23

Descriptive Paragraph Example—Structure ........................................................................... 24

Descriptive Paragraph Example—Composition ...................................................................... 24

Writing a Biographical Paragraph .............................................................................................. 35

Biographical Paragraph Example—Invention ......................................................................... 35

Biographical Paragraph Example—Structure ......................................................................... 36

Biographical Paragraph Example—Composition .................................................................... 37

Writing a Cause and Effect Paragraph ........................................................................................ 50

Cause and Effect Paragraph Example—Invention .................................................................. 50

Cause and Effect Paragraph Example—Structure ....................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

Cause and Effect Paragraph Example—Composition ............................................................. 51

Writing a Comparison Paragraph ............................................................................................... 61

Comparison Paragraph Example—Invention .......................................................................... 61

Comparison Paragraph Example—Structure .......................................................................... 61

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Comparison Paragraph Example—Composition ..................................................................... 62

Writing a Contrast Paragraph ..................................................................................................... 72

Contrast Paragraph Example—Invention ............................................................................... 72

Contrast Paragraph Example—Structure ............................................................................... 72

Contrast Paragraph Example—Composition .......................................................................... 73

Writing a “How to” Paragraph ................................................................................................... 83

“How To” Paragraph Example—Invention ............................................................................. 83

“How To” Paragraph Example—Structure .............................................................................. 84

“How To” Paragraph Example—Composition ........................................................................ 85

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BACKGROUND

How to Write a Paragraph teaches students the fundamentals of paragraph writing. Students

learn the basic structure of a paragraph—topic sentence, supporting details, and clincher or

concluding sentence.

The lessons are structured so that students learn about paragraphs by writing paragraphs of

various types. As they complete the exercises, students will learn how to brainstorm their

topic, create an outline, write their paragraph, and edit their writing.

Paragraph Structures Included

This text covers six different types of paragraphs:

The Descriptive Paragraph

The Biographical Paragraph

The Cause and Effect Paragraph

The Comparison Paragraph

The Contrast Paragraph

The “How to” Paragraph

Unlike other paragraph writing curricula, How to Write a Paragraph teaches students to write

basic paragraphs based on information from their own experiences or from subjects they’re

studying in school.

This curriculum is suitable for all students that need to learn or review the fundamentals of

paragraph writing.

Note: Although there are other types of paragraphs, these paragraphs were selected because

they give students the opportunity to develop and practice the basic writing skills that are

needed for upper level writing.

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INSTRUCTIONS

There are several ways to use How to Write a Paragraph. One is to work through the text from

the beginning to the end, completing the exercises as written.

Another option is to modify the exercises to accommodate your student’s course work,

basically using this text to help your student write across the curriculum.

As your student completes the exercises, please remember that the invention and outline

sections are tools to help your student develop and organize his thoughts for the composition

exercises. So if you have a student that can write a paragraph without first creating an outline,

encourage the student to complete the invention and structure exercises anyway. Mastering

these skills will help prepare your student for essay writing in the future.

Students have to learn to identify problem areas in their thoughts and course correct as

necessary.

Each paragraph writing section has four areas of focus—invention, structure, composition, and

review.

Invention

The invention area helps students brainstorm ideas for their paragraph.

Structure

The structure area teaches students to place their ideas in outline form. (Even though the

invention tables are organized in such a way that students can write their paragraphs without

the outline, it is important that students create their outlines first. Creating the outlines helps

to teach students how outlines are written. And as their writing becomes more complicated,

the outlines will become more useful.)

Composition

Based on their outline, students write their composition.

Review

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The final area is the review section. Students should be encouraged to review and edit their

own writing as much as possible.

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WRITING A SENTENCE

A sentence is a group of words that are put together to convey meaning. Sentences give

information and answer questions. In order to be a sentence and not a phrase, it must contain

both a subject and a verb.

Example The dog barked. The cat meowed. The cow mooed. The waves crashed

The sun set.

A subject is the topic spoken of, and the verb states something about the subject. In all of the

sentences above, the subjects are underlined once and the verbs twice.

ASSIGNMENT 1.1

For the subjects below, add a verb:

1. The man __________________________________________________________________.

2. The woman ________________________________________________________________.

3. My pet ____________________________________________________________________.

4. Little boys _________________________________________________________________.

5. Little girls _________________________________________________________________.

For the verbs below, add a subject:

1. _____________________________ scurried with fear.

2. _____________________________ laughed loudly as he left the room.

3. _____________________________ soared above the clouds.

3. _____________________________ repeatedly tapped his finger on the table.

5. _____________________________ grabbed the mic and loudly sang off‐key.

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ANSWERING A QUESTION

One way to create a sentence is by asking…then answering…a question.

Example: Why are you having a party?

Correct: We are having a party because today is Jane’s birthday.

Incorrect: Because it’s Jane’s birthday.

If you were to answer the question with—because it is Jane’s birthday—your answer would not

be a sentence.

ASSIGNMENT 1.2

Use complete sentences to provide answers for the questions below. Remember you must

have a subject and a verb.

1. How did you get to school today?

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

2. When will we go on the field trip?

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

3. Who is coming to the pizza party?

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

4. What kind of dog do you have?

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

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5. Where did Nick go during summer vacation?

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

6. Why did Marilyn buy a new camper?

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

What are you wearing to school tomorrow?

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

7. Where is your cat hiding?

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

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EXPANDING YOUR SENTENCES

To expand a sentence, you add more information. One way is to include information that tells

Who, What (did what or what happened), When, Where, and Why.

Look at the example below:

Who: The puppy

What: knocked on the door

When: yesterday

Where: of my van

Why: because he wanted me to stay home.

Once you know who, what, when, where, and why, you can make an amazing sentence! To

create the sentence, put the answers together until the sentence is understandable.

Remember, there is always more than one way to write a sentence.

Example: Yesterday the puppy knocked on the door of my van because he

wanted me to stay home.

ASSIGNMENT 1.3

For the subjects below, add what (did what or what happened), when, where, why, and how.

1. Who ______Stacie_________________________________________

What ___________________________________________________

When ___________________________________________________

Where __________________________________________________

Why ____________________________________________________

Use your answers to compose interesting sentences.

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

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2. Who ______The cake______________________________________

What ___________________________________________________

When ___________________________________________________

Where __________________________________________________

Why ____________________________________________________


_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

4. Who ______School work____________________________________

What ___________________________________________________

When ___________________________________________________

Where __________________________________________________

Why ____________________________________________________


_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

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3. Who ____My best friend___________________________________

What ___________________________________________________

When ___________________________________________________

Where __________________________________________________

Why ____________________________________________________


_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

5. Who ______Books_________________________________________

What ___________________________________________________

When ___________________________________________________

Where __________________________________________________

Why ____________________________________________________


_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

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6. Who ____Clowns__________________________________________

What ___________________________________________________

When ___________________________________________________

Where __________________________________________________

Why ____________________________________________________


_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

7. Who ______Birds_________________________________________

What ___________________________________________________

When ___________________________________________________

Where __________________________________________________

Why ____________________________________________________


_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

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8. Who ____A school bus full of children__________________________

What ___________________________________________________

When ___________________________________________________

Where __________________________________________________

Why ____________________________________________________


_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

9. Who ______Bob_________________________________________

What ___________________________________________________

When ___________________________________________________

Where __________________________________________________

Why ____________________________________________________


_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

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10. Who ____The wind_________________________________________

What ___________________________________________________

When ___________________________________________________

Where __________________________________________________

Why ____________________________________________________


_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

11. Who ______My pet _______________________________________

What ___________________________________________________

When ___________________________________________________

Where __________________________________________________

Why ____________________________________________________


_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

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WRITING A PARAGRAPH

A group of sentences that develop a single idea is a paragraph.

To compose a paragraph, you typically follow three steps.

First, you come up with something to write about. This is called invention.

Second, you organize your information into an outline. This is called structure because

the outline you create will determine the structure of your paragraph. Typically,

paragraph outlines have the following form.

I. Topic Sentence

A. Major detail

B. Major detail

C. Major detail

D. Concluding detail

Third, you compose your paragraph.

When you write the paragraph, the first sentence, although it doesn’t have to be, is typically

the topic sentence. The topic sentence tells the reader what your paragraph is about. Next are

the major details from your outline—labeled A, B, C, and D in the outline above. The major

details tell your readers all the details you want them to know about your topic. And the

conclusion is the final detail of your paragraph. Often, the conclusion tells your readers what

you just told them or explains the overall point of the paragraph.

As you write the sentences of your paragraph, you will incorporate transition words. Transition

words often make the difference between a well written paragraph and a poorly written

paragraph. Transition words link ideas within your paragraph, allowing your sentences to flow

smoothly from one detail to the next. On the following page, a table of transition words is

available for your use.

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TRANSITION WORDS TABLE

Type of Paragraph Transition Words or Phrase

Descriptive Surprisingly, as a result, and the varied sentence openers, for example, for instance, specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case, like

Biographical and, namely, for instance, in fact, specifically, generally,

sometimes, in particular, for example, later, after, soon

Cause and Effect

as a result, in that case, thus, because of, hence, then,

therefore, accordingly, consequently, initially, while,

when, new, before, recent, next, finally, soon

Comparison also, likewise, similarly, so too, in the same way, both,

and, each

Contrast

although, however, but, despite, even so, in contrast,

instead, nevertheless, notwithstanding, on the other

hand, regardless, still, though, yet

How to for example, for instance, specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case, like, now, in no time, once

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Topic Sentence

Major detail

Concluding Sentence

Major Detail

Major Detail

A common illustration for a paragraph is a sandwich. The buns represent the topic sentence

and the concluding sentence. The main ideas are represented by the cheese, meat, tomatoes,

and lettuce. In the same way you may add more food to your sandwich, like bacon, you may

add more details your paragraph.

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ASSIGNMENT 2.1

Fill in the blanks with transition words or phrases of your own. If you need ideas to determine

transition words, use the table on page 20. Remember, the table does not include all transition

words and phrases, but only a few.

1. The two children went with their sleds to the top of a hill nearby. ______________ they

found four boys, each of whom had a sled. The hill was long and very smooth.

_____________________, six children and six sleds darted like arrows down the slope and

across the white frozen field to the brook. Each boy would shout for a clear track before he

started, so he would not hit anything as he went down. They kept up the sport and

_____________________ scattered to their homes.

2. An old Arabian story tells of a poor boy named Aladdin who gained possession of a magic

lamp. When this lamp was rubbed, a slave appeared who provided anything that the owner of

the lamp demanded. _____________________, Aladdin asked for rich food, splendid clothing,

precious stones, and a great palace. __________________________ all came as he desired.

__________________________ Aladdin married the daughter of the ruler of China, and

thought his good fortune would never end. __________________________ he carelessly

allowed the precious lamp to grow rusty, and _____________________ lost it. His wealth

dwindled away, his palace vanished into the air, and he became as poor as he had ever been.

__________________________ the careless man is likely to suffer.

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WRITING A DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH

A paragraph that describes is known as a descriptive paragraph. To write a descriptive

paragraph, you tell your readers how the item you are describing appeals to the senses—how

it looks, sounds, tastes, smells, or feels. These qualities make up the major details of your

outline. (Note: You do not have to include all of the senses in every paragraph. Sometimes you

may only incorporate information relating to one or two senses.)

If you have a topic that appeals to only one sense, such as a painting, then you should list that

one sense five times. When referring to the sense of sight for a painting, you will describe the

first detail on the painting, such as the trees. For the second detail, you will describe a second

item in the painting, such as the sky. For the third sight detail, you may describe the rocky path,

and so on.

DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION

Topic Apple

Sight large, round, red, ripe

Touch cold, smooth, firm

Smell fragrant, inviting

Taste horrible, overripe

Sound nothing

Concluding Opinion wish I hadn’t eaten it

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DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE

I. Topic: Apple

A. Large, round, red, ripe.

B. Cold, smooth, firm

C. Fragrant and inviting

D. Horrible, overripe.

Clincher E. Regret eating

DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION

When writing the sentences for your paragraph, ask yourself where, when, how, or why as you

write. These additional details will help you write varied types of sentences, making your

paragraph more interesting to read.

THE APPLE

In the basket, I spy an exceptionally large, red apple. I pick it up. The apple feels cool,

smooth, and firm to the touch. The fragrant smell invites me to taste it. Eagerly, I bite it. Upon

tasting it, I learn that it is horrible and disgustingly overripe. Because it is overripe, it tastes like

old, stale applesauce. Obviously, I am sorry that I ate it.

Where? In the basket,

When? Upon tasting it

Why? Because it is overripe

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DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—REVIEW

Using the checklist below, review your paragraph. As you edit and improve your paragraph,

mark off the column on the right.

Paragraph Checklist

Indent your first line. X

Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then” X

Capitalization X

Punctuation X

Spelling X

Varied Sentence Openers X

Transition Words X

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ASSIGNMENT 3.1

Describe a computer.

INVENTION

Topic

Sight

Touch

Smell

Taste

Sound

Concluding Opinion

STRUCTURE

Complete the Descriptive Paragraph Outline below. Remember if the topic is not edible, you

may exclude the sense of taste. Likewise, if it doesn’t make a noise, you may exclude sound.

I. Topic: ______________________________________________________________________

A. Sight_____________________________________________________________________

B. Touch____________________________________________________________________

C. Smell_____________________________________________________________________

D. Sound____________________________________________________________________

E. Concluding Detail___________________________________________________________

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COMPOSITION

To compose more interesting sentences, ask yourself where, when, how, or why as you write.

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

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Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.

Paragraph Checklist

Indent your first line.

Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”

Capitalization

Punctuation

Spelling

Varied Sentence Openers

Transition Words

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ASSIGNMENT 3.2

Describe an unusual toy.

INVENTION

Topic

Sight

Touch

Smell

Taste

Sound

Concluding Opinion

STRUCTURE

Complete the Descriptive Paragraph Outline below. Using the previous example, create

descriptive paragraphs for the topics below. If the topic is not edible, you may exclude the

sense of taste. Likewise, if it doesn’t make a noise, you may exclude it.

I. Topic: ______________________________________________________________________

A. Sight_____________________________________________________________________

B. Touch____________________________________________________________________

C. Smell_____________________________________________________________________

D. Sound____________________________________________________________________


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COMPOSITION


_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

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REVIEW


Paragraph Checklist



Capitalization

Punctuation

Spelling


Transition Words

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ASSIGNMENT 3.3

Describe a chocolate chip cookie. (Pick a different type of cookie if you wish.)

INVENTION

Topic

Sight

Touch

Smell

Taste

Sound

Concluding Opinion

STRUCTURE

Complete the Descriptive Paragraph Outline below.

Using the previous example, create descriptive paragraphs for the topics below. If the topic is

not edible, you may exclude the sense of taste. Likewise, if it doesn’t make a noise, you may

exclude it.

I. Topic: ______________________________________________________________________

A. Sight_____________________________________________________________________

B. Touch____________________________________________________________________

C. Smell_____________________________________________________________________

D. Taste_____________________________________________________________________


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COMPOSITION


_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

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REVIEW


Paragraph Checklist



Capitalization

Punctuation

Spelling


Transition Words

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WRITING A BIOGRAPHICAL PARAGRAPH

To give someone an understanding of the life and character of a person, we write a biography.

To write a biographical paragraph, include information about the person’s background (birth

and death), education, values, and accomplishments.

BIOGRAPHICAL PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION

Topic James Watt, inventor of modern steam engine

A. Background city, birth, parents

1. born at Greenock in 1736 2. father ship owner

B. Education school, natural abilities

1. weak child, homeschooled, 2. natural with math and machines, 3. became apprentice to mathematical 4. instrument maker in London

C. Life experiences

1. at 23, studied steam engine, 1759 2. at 33, patented his improved engine, 1769 3. later opened engine shop, with Boulton, Birmingham 4. 1800 retired wealthy 5. died 1819, at Heathfield, near Birmingham

D. Values 1. hard work, 2. persevered

E. Impact on others Changed the world by making engines efficient

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BIOGRAPHICAL PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE

I. Introduce James Watt, invented modern steam engine

A. Background

1. Born 1736 Greenock

2. Father ship owner

B. Education

1. Weak child, homeschooled

2. Natural in math and machines

3. At 19, apprentice mathematical instrument maker in London

C. Life Experiences

1. At 23, studied steam engine

2. At 33, patented his improved engine,

3. Later opened engine shop,

4. 1800 retired wealthy

5. Died 1819

D. Values

1. Hard worker

2. Persevered

E. Impact, changed the world with his contributions

In case you did not notice, when you create an outline, and want to add major details

under a heading, as was done in the previous paragraphs, you list the major details

under the first letter of the heading. The major details below are numbered 1, 2, and 3.

Ex. D. Values

1. Was weak in body

2. Was strong in mind

3. Persevered

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BIOGRAPHICAL PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION

James Watt, the chief inventor of the steam‐engine, was born at Greenock in 1736. His

father was a ship owner. As James was weak as a child, he was educated at home. Eventually,

he showed an aptitude for mathematics and machines. In 1755 he was sent to London to learn

the trade of a mathematical instrument maker. Ill‐health compelled him to return to Glasgow

in 1756, where he worked as a mathematical instrument maker. Later, in 1759 at the age of 23,

he began to study the steam‐engine. Ten years later, in 1769, he patented his improved steam

engine. With his business partner Matthew Boulton, he designed engine works near

Birmingham and became very prosperous. He later retired from business in 1800, and died at

Heathfield, near Birmingham, in 1819. James Watt, although thought to be physically weak,

proved himself to be mentally strong. He was very studious and persevered through his

weaknesses. Because Watts made the steam engine, which had an impact on every other

industry, more efficient, Watts literally changed the world.

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ASSIGNMENT 4.1

Write a biographical paragraph for a person from your history studies.

INVENTION

Even though numbers have been added under the headings of background, education, life

experiences, and values, you do not have to use every number.

Topic


1.

2.

3.


1.

2.

3.

4.

C. Life experiences

1

2.

3.

4.

D. Values

1.

2.

3.

E. Impact on others

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STRUCTURE

I. Topic:____________________________________________________________

A._______________________________________________________________

B._______________________________________________________________

C._______________________________________________________________

D._______________________________________________________________

Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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COMPOSITION

Using your outline, write your biographical paragraph.

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

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REVIEW


Paragraph Checklist



Capitalization

Punctuation

Spelling


Transition Words (and, namely, for instance, in fact, specifically, generally, sometimes, in particular, for example, later, after, soon)

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ASSIGNMENT 4.2

Write a biographical paragraph about an author.

INVENTION



Topic


1.

2.

3.


1.

2.

3.

4.

C. Life experiences

1

2.

3.

4.

D. Values

1.

2.

3.

E. Impact on others

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STRUCTURE

I. Topic:____________________________________________________________

A._______________________________________________________________

B._______________________________________________________________

C._______________________________________________________________

D._______________________________________________________________

Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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COMPOSITION


_____________________________________________________________________________

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_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

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_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

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REVIEW


Paragraph Checklist



Capitalization

Punctuation

Spelling


Transition Words (and, namely, for instance, in fact, specifically, generally, sometimes, in particular, for example, later, after, soon)

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ASSIGNMENT 4.3

Write a biographical paragraph about a scientist or an inventor.

INVENTION



Topic


1.

2.

3.


1.

2.

3.

4.

C. Life experiences

1

2.

3.

4.

D. Values

1.

2.

3.

E. Impact on others

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STRUCTURE

I. Topic:____________________________________________________________

A._______________________________________________________________

B._______________________________________________________________

C._______________________________________________________________

D._______________________________________________________________

Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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COMPOSITION


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REVIEW


Paragraph Checklist



Capitalization

Punctuation

Spelling


Transition Words

50

WRITING A CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH

A cause and effect paragraph is one that allows you to look at one event (or cause) and then

write about things that happen because of it. Basically, you are writing about the effects that

the cause did create or will create.

First, you state your cause and then list at least three effects. To make a really good paragraph,

you should also add information that explains the effects. You can think of this as two ideas per

effect. One to state the effect, and one to explain it.

CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION

Cause Regular exercise valuable

1st Effect Helps maintain healthy weight, prevent diseases

2nd Effect Releases good chemicals in your brain

3rd Effect Gives more muscles

CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE

I. Exercise keeps you healthy, happy, strong

A. Helps maintain healthy weight, prevents

diseases.

B. Releases good chemicals in your brain

C. Produces more muscles

Clincher D. Exercise creates improvements

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CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION

Exercise is very important because it will keep you healthy, happy, and strong. From

modern research, most people know that exercise is important for maintaining a healthy

weight and preventing diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. In addition to these

health benefits, when people exercise, their bodies produce chemicals called endorphins.

Endorphins are natural chemicals that make one feel happier and more positive about life.

These chemicals also help alleviate pain. A final benefit of exercise is that it helps to maintain

and even increase muscle mass. Exercising creates positive changes in both one’s body and

mind.

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ASSIGNMENT 5.1

Write a cause and effect paragraph explaining why it is important to get enough sleep. In your

paragraph tell three things that happen when children don’t get enough sleep or how sleep

helps them. Your final sentence should restate the importance of getting enough sleep.

INVENTION

Cause

1st Effect

2nd Effect

3rd Effect

STRUCTURE

I. Topic:____________________________________________________________

A._______________________________________________________________

B._______________________________________________________________

C._______________________________________________________________

D._______________________________________________________________

Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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COMPOSITION


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ASSIGNMENT 5.2

Write a cause and effect paragraph explaining why it is important to eat a good diet. In your

paragraph tell three things that happen when people don’t eat well. Your final sentence should

restate the importance of a good diet.

INVENTION

Cause

1st Effect

2nd Effect

3rd Effect

STRUCTURE

I. Topic:____________________________________________________________

A._______________________________________________________________

B._______________________________________________________________

C._______________________________________________________________

D._______________________________________________________________

Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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COMPOSITION


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ASSIGNMENT 5.3

Write a cause and effect paragraph explaining why it is important that children spend time reading every day. Discuss the effects that reading has on the mind. Your final sentence should restate the importance of reading.

INVENTION

Cause

1st Effect

2nd Effect

3rd Effect

STRUCTURE

I. Topic:____________________________________________________________

A._______________________________________________________________

B._______________________________________________________________

C._______________________________________________________________

D._______________________________________________________________

Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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WRITING A COMPARISON PARAGRAPH

A comparison paragraph shows how two things are alike or similar. When you write a

comparison paragraph, you should state the two things you are comparing and then support

that statement with details that explain how they are similar.

COMPARISON PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION

TOPIC CAT AND DOG SIMILARITIES

Detail 1 both mammals‐‐have similar body structure

fur, tail, and four legs

Detail 2 designed for life outside

Detail 3 give birth to live young

Concluding Detail can be domesticated, make great pets

COMPARISON PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE

I. Cats and dogs similar.

A. Mammals, fur, four legs, tail__

B. Designed for living outside, breathe air, hunt _

C. Give birth to live young

Clincher D. Domesticated, make great pets!

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COMPARISON PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION

Cats and dogs are very similar. Both animals are mammals, and have similar body

structure‐‐fur, four legs, and a tail. Also, both animals are designed for living outside. They both

breathe air, and they both hunt for food. Like other mammals, cats and dogs give birth to live

young; however, unlike many other mammals, cats and dogs can be domesticated. Because

both cats and dogs can live indoors with humans, they make fantastic pets.

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ASSIGNMENT 6.1

Write a comparison paragraph, comparing two people from history.

INVENTION

TOPIC

Detail 1

Detail 2

Detail 3

Concluding Detail

STRUCTURE

I. Topic:____________________________________________________________

A._______________________________________________________________

B._______________________________________________________________

C._______________________________________________________________

D._______________________________________________________________

Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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COMPOSITION


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ASSIGNMENT 6.2

Write a comparison paragraph, comparing two inventions or two physical items, such as a pencil and a pen.

INVENTION

TOPIC

Detail 1

Detail 2

Detail 3

Concluding Detail

STRUCTURE

I. Topic:____________________________________________________________

A._______________________________________________________________

B._______________________________________________________________

C._______________________________________________________________

D._______________________________________________________________

Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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ASSIGNMENT 6.3

Write a comparison paragraph, comparing two animals .

INVENTION

TOPIC

Detail 1

Detail 2

Detail 3

Concluding Detail

STRUCTURE

I. Topic:____________________________________________________________

A._______________________________________________________________

B._______________________________________________________________

C._______________________________________________________________

D._______________________________________________________________

Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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WRITING A CONTRAST PARAGRAPH

A contrast paragraph shows how two things are different. In a contrast paragraph, you state

the things that are different and then support that claim with at least three examples that

show the differences.

CONTRAST PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION

Differences between Cats and Dogs

TOPICS CATS DOGS

1st Difference Meow Bark

2nd Difference Cats can retract their Dogs cannot retract claws.

3rd Difference cats can jump and climb

trees dogs stay on the ground

4th Difference Cats potty train themselves

Dogs have to be potty trained

CONTRAST PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE

I. Cats and dogs, different

A. Cats meow, dogs bark

B. Cats retract claws, dogs cannot

C. Cats jump high, climb trees, dogs ground

Clincher D. Cats potty train selves, dogs do not

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CONTRAST PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION

Cats and dogs are very different animals even though they are both mammals. They are

different in the way they sound; dogs bark while cats meow. Another difference is in the way

their claws are made. Cats have the ability to extend and retract their claws. Dogs do not. Also,

cats have the ability to jump very high and climb trees. Dogs, on the other hand, tend to spend

all of their time on the ground. One final difference is how they are potty trained. Actually, cats

do not have to be potty trained at all. If you give a cat a litter box, they instinctively know what

to do. On the other hand, dogs typically take a while, and a few accidents, to potty train.

Regardless of the differences, however, both dogs and cats make great pets.

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ASSIGNMENT 7.1

Write a contrast paragraph, contrasting two people, real or imaginary.

INVENTION

TOPICS

1st Difference

2nd Difference

3rd Difference

4th Difference

STRUCTURE

I. Topic:____________________________________________________________

A._______________________________________________________________

B._______________________________________________________________

C._______________________________________________________________

D._______________________________________________________________

Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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ASSIGNMENT 7.2

Write a contrast paragraph, contrasting two foods.

INVENTION


TOPICS

1st Difference

2nd Difference

3rd Difference

4th Difference

STRUCTURE

I. Topic:____________________________________________________________

A._______________________________________________________________

B._______________________________________________________________

C._______________________________________________________________

D._______________________________________________________________

Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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ASSIGNMENT 7.3

Write a contrast paragraph, contrasting two stories, real or imaginary.

INVENTION


TOPICS

1st Difference

2nd Difference

3rd Difference

4th Difference

STRUCTURE

I. Topic:____________________________________________________________

A._______________________________________________________________

B._______________________________________________________________

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Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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WRITING A “HOW TO” PARAGRAPH

A “how to” paragraph teaches your reader how to do something new. In a “how to”

paragraph, you will give your reader steps to follow so that they can learn a new skill.

Now it’s your turn to be the expert! Choose a topic, and start your title with “How to.” Add

a sentence or two to introduce or explain your topic. Then number the steps in your

paragraph, and start each step with a command.

“HOW TO” PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION

Topic How to Hang a Picture

Step 1 Ask friend to hold picture to help find a spot.

Step 2 Pick the spot you want to put picture.

Step 3 On wall, place mark along the top of the frame in the

center.

Step 4 Measure distance from the top of the frame to the bracket

on back.

Step 5 Measure the same distance from the 1st mark on the wall.

Step 6 Make a second small mark on the wall.

Step 7 Pound nail ¼ in. into wall on second mark.

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“HOW TO” PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE

I. Hanging pictures make house feel homey.

A. Ask friend to hold picture against wall,

B. Pick the spot you want

C. On top of frame, near center, small mark

on the wall,

D. Measure distance top of frame to bracket

on back.

E. On wall, measure same distance down from

the first mark

F. Make a second small mark on wall.

G. Pound nail into wall, leaving abt ¼ in. out.

Clincher H. Hang your picture

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“HOW TO” PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION

How to Hang a Picture

When a house has pictures on the walls, the pictures make the house feel homier. To

acquire this effect, you have to decide where to hang the pictures. To make your house feel

homier, follow these steps to hang your pictures perfectly. First, have a friend hold the

picture on the wall while you stand back to get a good view. Once it looks nice, have your

friend hold it in place. Next, using a pencil, make a light pencil mark on the wall along the

top of the frame in the center. With a ruler, measure the distance from the top of the frame

to the bracket on the back of the painting. Measure the same distance down from your

mark on the wall, and make a second small mark on the wall. Pound a nail into the wall

where you made the second mark. Be sure to leave the nail sticking out about one‐fourth of

an inch. Now you are ready to hang your picture on the wall!

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ASSIGNMENT 8.1

Write a “How to” paragraph, telling how to perform a chore such as make a bed or clean dishes. (Another option is how to perform a science experiment.)

INVENTION

You do not have to have ten steps. Use as many steps as you need for your topic.

Topic

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Step 8

Step 9

Step 10

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STRUCTURE

Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify them if

necessary. Note: Place your clincher on your final item. You do not have to use all of the lines

below.

I. ________________________________________________________________

A. _____________________________________________________________

B. _____________________________________________________________

C. _____________________________________________________________

D. _____________________________________________________________

E. _____________________________________________________________

F. _____________________________________________________________

G. _____________________________________________________________

H. _____________________________________________________________

I. ______________________________________________________________

J. ______________________________________________________________

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ASSIGNMENT 8.2

Write a “How to” paragraph, telling how to cook a recipe.

INVENTION


Topic

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Step 8

Step 9

Step 10

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below.

I. ________________________________________________________________

A. _____________________________________________________________

B. _____________________________________________________________

C. _____________________________________________________________

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F. _____________________________________________________________

G. _____________________________________________________________

H. _____________________________________________________________

I. ______________________________________________________________

J. ______________________________________________________________

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ASSIGNMENT 8.3

Write a “How to” paragraph, telling how to perform a physical activity, such as shooting a basketball, swimming, dancing, roller skating, or walking.

INVENTION


Topic

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

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STRUCTURE



below.

I. ________________________________________________________________

A. _____________________________________________________________

B. _____________________________________________________________

C. _____________________________________________________________

D. _____________________________________________________________

E. _____________________________________________________________

F. _____________________________________________________________

G. _____________________________________________________________

H. _____________________________________________________________

I. ______________________________________________________________

J. ______________________________________________________________

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Documents

How to Write a Paragraph - Amazon S3How to Write a Paragraph teaches students the fundamentals of paragraph writing. Students learn the basic structure of a paragraph—topic sentence,