Paragraph Writing

by Sadaf Farooq
 What is a Paragraph?
• A paragraph is a subdivision of a written
composition that consists of one or more
sentences, and deals with one point.
OR
• A paragraph is a unit of writing in a larger
body of work. A paragraph expresses a
particular topic or theme
 Structure
• The structure of a paragraph parallels the
structure of an essay in order as well as
content. Both contain a coherent argument,
supporting evidence/analysis, and a conclusion.
• Specifically, the contents of a paragraph are as
follows:
– The topic sentence
– Supporting evidence/analysis
– Conclusion
 The Topic sentence
• Needs to state ONE idea clearly
• Useful Tip: Always put the most important
information first!
• The Topic Sentence serves two functions:
– first, it functions as the thesis of your paragraph.
– second, it pushes the thesis of your essay forward
and presents an arguable point.
 Supporting Evidence/Analysis
• Elaborates and explains the idea introduced in
the topic sentence
• Provides evidence and examples
• Explains the evidence or example included - why
is it relevant?
• You need to find a balance between evidence
you provide (facts, quotations, summary of
events/plot, etc.) and analysis (interpretation of
evidence).
 Conclusion
• Makes links: back to the main idea of the
paragraph; back to research question or topic
of the assignment; to the next paragraph.
• The Concluding Observation closes your
paragraph with an observation that is more
than just summary of the contents of the
paragraph.
• The following paragraph has been broken down into its constituent parts:
• The Topic Sentence: The means by which environmentalists seek to
achieve their political goals demonstrate a willingness to operate within
traditional political channels. [point arguable: some people may believe
environmentalists largely use antidemocratic strategies.]
• Supporting Evidence/Analysis: Like many other special interest groups,
advocates for the environmentalist movement use lobbying tactics such as
contributing financially to the campaigns of environmentally friendly
candidates. Lobbying provides a source of political influence and power. As
one analyst of environmental politics notes, in “making some commitment
to work within the political system. . .[environmental lobby groups]
succumb to. . .pressure to play ‘by the rules of the game’ in the
compromise world of Washington, D.C.” (Vig and Kraft 70). [blend of
supporting evidence/analysis]
• Conclusion: Some might argue that environmentalists have taken a
distinctly anti-American approach to policy change, claiming that lobbying
is inherently undemocratic in its bias towards certain segments of the
population; however, lobbying remains a constitutionally legitimate form
of political activism. [more than just summary, the point is arguable and
could easily lead to another point.]
 Types of Paragraphs
•  According to the writing propose, paragraphs may
be classify into four main categories:
– Descriptive
– Persuasive
– Expository
– Narrative
• To describe something or someone To tell stories
or sequence of events To explain something, give
information or instructions To convince the reader.
 Descriptive Paragraphs
• Descriptive paragraphs aim to:
–Show the reader what a thing or person is like without physical contact.
–Allow the reader to experience the phenomenon, item or event described
in detail.
• Example: As a child at the age of two, my sister and I had pictures taken
together. My sister and I are ten months and three weeks apart. In this
special family picture was look identical. Our big, dark blue and brown eyes
and smile resemble two calm little girls, enjoying the moment with peaceful
smiles on our faces. In our long, dark red and blue dresses we sit straight up
in front of a warn red fireplace surrounded by green plants. Our dark brown,
wavy hair even matched. We both had baby pink bows off to the side of our
heads that resemble a blooming flower. Growing up our family consisted of
our father, my sister, and I. My sister and I have both been there for each
other through “the thick and the thin.” My photograph of my sister and
reveals how close we are in age and through this paragraph it also reveals
how close we are when it comes to love and friendship.
 Narrative Paragraphs
• Narrative paragraphs aim to tell about a sequence of actions. Their
feature are:
– There is always a clear beginning, middle and end.
– They usually follow a plot line.
• Example: It was July 21, 1969, and Neil Armstrong awoke with a
start. It was the day he would become the first human being to ever
walk on the moon. The journey had begun several days earlier,
when on July 16th, the Apollo 11 launched from Earth headed into
outer space. On board with Neil Armstrong were Michael Collins
and Buzz Aldrin. The crew landed on the moon in the Sea of
Tranquility a day before the actual walk. Upon Neil’s first step onto
the moon’s surface, he declared, “That’s one small step for man,
one giant leap for mankind.” It sure was!
 Expository Paragraph
• Expository paragraphs aim to:
– Help the reader understand following a process or a method.
– Provide information either explaining it or giving instructions.
– They often require research.
– An exposition usually includes techniques such as examples or
illustrations to support a statement.
• Example: This invention brings forth a new era that permits
the user to drive in complete luxury, without need to focus on
the manual control of the automobile. By implementing driver-
less cars, we can finally control the roadways in a safe and
efficient manner. This invention will result in some of the
greatest societal growth in human history
 Persuasive Paragraph
• Persuasive paragraphs aim to get the reader reaction, accepting or
understanding the writer’s position or proposal. They often require the
gathering of facts and research.
• Example: The Cass School summer carnival in January is a special event
everyone should attend. First of all, there are activities for everyone.
This year, one classroom had games for little kids. Another room
painted a clown with a huge mouth on a board. Other rooms had shoe
scrambles and relay races. Secondly, each room gives prizes like yo-yos,
bug-eyed glasses, and light-up pens. Winning a prize always adds a little
excitement to each activity. The best part is the clown contest. It is
pretty funny to see how students become clowns using old clothes, face
paint, wigs, big clunky shoes, and wild ties. Adults and kids laugh and
laugh at the clowns. For a little summer fun in January, the Cass School
carnival is worth a visit.