Paragraph Structure and Composition

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is the primary function of a paragraph?

  • To list multiple unrelated points without connection.
  • To present a single, coherent idea. (correct)
  • To entertain the reader with engaging stories.
  • To confuse the reader and challenge their understanding.

What are the three essential elements that contribute to an effective paragraph?

  • Topic sentence, supporting details, concluding sentence (correct)
  • Introduction, body, conclusion
  • Title, abstract, references
  • Hook, argument, evidence

Which quality ensures that all sentences within a paragraph are related to the same main idea?

  • Unity (correct)
  • Coherence
  • Emphasis
  • Development

How does 'coherence' contribute to the quality of a good paragraph?

<p>By making the sentences stick together and flow logically. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of 'emphasis' in paragraph writing?

<p>To give special weight and importance to key ideas. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the topic sentence normally placed at the beginning of a paragraph?

<p>To introduce the main idea early on and prepare the reader. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a 'list statement' type of topic sentence?

<p>It tells the reader precisely what the paragraph will discuss by listing multiple ideas. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does a 'power number statement' function as a topic sentence?

<p>By using number words to present the general topic without listing specific details. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the 'two nouns and two commas' type of topic sentence, what role do the commas play?

<p>Enclosing a descriptive phrase (appositive) about the first noun. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of an 'occasion/position' topic sentence?

<p>It starts with a dependent clause (occasion) and ends with the writer’s stance (position). (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of a 'get their attention' topic sentence?

<p>To grab the reader’s attention with a thought-provoking or controversial statement. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of persuasive text?

<p>To convince the reader to adopt a particular opinion or action. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following text types is primarily used to inform, explain, describe, or define a subject?

<p>Expository text (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of explanatory text?

<p>To describe how things work and why things happen. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which quality of good writing involves making the sentences 'stick together' for the reader?

<p>Coherence (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following ensures that a paragraph discusses ONLY ONE main topic?

<p>Unity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A writer is creating an advertisement designed to convince people to switch to renewable energy. What type of text is this?

<p>Persuasive (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Sam is writing a report about the history of the Roman Empire relying on facts. Which type of text is Sam writing?

<p>Expository (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A scientist writes an article explaining how photosynthesis works in plants. Which type of writing is this?

<p>Explanatory (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a type of topic sentence discussed?

<p>Thesis Antagonistic Statements (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Paragraph

The main unit of organization in writing, presenting a central idea.

Topic Sentence

A sentence that introduces the main idea of a paragraph.

Supporting Sentences

Sentences that provide details and support for the main idea in a paragraph.

Concluding Sentence

A sentence that summarizes the paragraph or transitions to the next one.

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Unity

The quality of a paragraph where all parts relate to one main topic.

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Coherence

The quality of a paragraph where sentences are logically organized and connected.

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Emphasis

The principle of making important ideas stand out through placement and repetition.

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List Statements

A type of topic sentence that lists multiple ideas.

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Power Number Statements

A type of topic sentence using number words to present the general topic.

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Two Nouns and Two Commas

Topic sentence with a noun, description in commas, and a statement.

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Occasion Position

Topic sentence beginning with a dependent clause (occasion) and ending with the writer’s position.

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Get Their Attention

Topic sentence designed to grab the reader's attention.

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Persuasive Text

Text that aims to convince the reader to adopt a specific viewpoint.

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Expository Text

Text that informs, explains, describes, or defines a subject.

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Explanatory Text

Text that describes how things work and why things happen.

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Study Notes

  • A paragraph is the main unit of organization.
  • Its fundamental role is to present an idea.
  • An effective paragraph contains a topic sentence, supporting details, and a concluding sentence.
  • A paragraph must have unity, coherence, and emphasis.
  • The parts of the paragraph ought to join in stressing what is important.

Parts of a Paragraph

  • Topic Sentence: Introduces the main idea or theme of the paragraph.
  • Supporting Sentences: Provide details, explanations, or examples to support the main idea.
  • Concluding Sentence: Wraps up the paragraph, summarizing or offering a transition to the next paragraph.

Qualities of a Good Paragraph

  • Coherence: Sentences should be organized and linked so readers can easily follow the train of thought.
  • Example: Regular exercise improves physical health by boosting the immune system and increasing energy levels, but it also positively impacts mental well-being, reducing stress and enhancing mood.
  • Unity: A paragraph is about only ONE main topic.
  • Example: Drinking water is essential for maintaining good health, helps keep the body hydrated, aids digestion and helps flush toxins.
  • Emphasis: Important ideas are made to stand out.
  • Achieved by the placement of words and ideas in key positions in a text.
  • It can also be reached by the repetition of words and phrases.
  • Example: “This great nation will endure as it has endured, will survive and will prosper. So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself…

Topic Sentence

  • Expresses to the reader the main idea of the paragraph.
  • Topic sentence prepares the reader on what to expect with the content of the paragraph.

Types of Topic Sentences

  • List Statements: Lists three or more ideas that the paragraph will be about.
  • Power Number Statements: Uses number words to present the general topic.
  • Two Nouns and Two Commas: Starts with a noun, describes it, and then makes a statement.
  • Occasion Position: Starts with an occasion and ends with the writer’s position on the topic.
  • Get their Attention: Tries to grab the reader’s attention by making a thought-provoking, controversial, or interesting statement.

Different Text Types and their Features

  • Persuasive Text: The author tries to convince the reader to adopt an opinion or perform an action.
  • Examples: Advertisements and commercials.
  • Expository Text: The author is to inform, explain, describe or define his/her subject to the reader.
  • Examples: Textbooks, encyclopedias, scientific books journals, atlases, directions, guides, biographies.
  • Explanatory Text: Describes how things work and why things happen, to teach people new information.

Qualities of an appealing writing

  • Focus
  • Development
  • Unity
  • Coherence
  • Correctness

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