Paragraph Plan

 

A single paragraph explores a single idea.  It is complete in itself.

 

The paragraph has the following components:

 

A. Beginning

   1. This is an abstract or general statement called the topic sentence.  It limits and              controls the paragraph.

   2. A qualifying statement or restatement of the topic either for clarity or for              emphasis.

   3. A definition of terminology, if necessary.

 

B. Middle

   1. Concrete (specific) fact, detail, example, reason or supporting evidence #1.

   2. Additional comment which explores point #1, perhaps giving a reason why the              point is significant.

   3. Concrete (specific) fact, detail, example, reason or supporting evidence #2.

   4. Additional comment relevant to point #2.

   5. Concrete (specific) fact, detail, example, reason or supporting evidence #3.

   6. Additional comment relevant to point #3.

 

C. End - A concluding statement, probably one of the following:

  a. A logical conclusion based on evidence

  b. A single sentence summary

  c. A restatement of your original assertion or opinion

  d. A plea for change (if suitable for the topic)

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1. The topic sentence is an opinion, judgement or conclusion which is supported by the remainder of the paragraph.

 

2. A fact may be an authority's opinion, a reference, dictionary or book quotation, a widely accepted belief, custom, practice or something that can be proven by                  objective means (through proof).

 

3. The information should be presented in an orderly manner: general to specific                 information; past to present (chronological time order); cause and effect; specific to general; spatial order (left to right, or top to bottom in a descriptive paragraph).

 

4. Transition words should be used between parts of the paragraph to signal movement from one idea to another.  Use repetition of key words (or synonyms) for effect.