10 Questions
What is the purpose of a paragraph?
To focus on a central topic or idea
What is the role of a topic sentence in a paragraph?
To control and express the central idea of the paragraph
What is the main purpose of organizing writing into paragraphs?
To show the reader the organization of the essay and its main points
What type of information can a paragraph contain?
A variety of information, such as examples, illustrations, descriptions, comparisons, or explanations of causes and effects
What is the most important characteristic that all paragraphs share?
A topic sentence that expresses the controlling idea
Which of the following is NOT a function of a topic sentence?
It summarizes the main idea of the paragraph
Where is it often best to place the topic sentence?
At the very beginning of the paragraph
In which situation might a paragraph NOT need a topic sentence?
All of the above
What does the text suggest about readers' expectations regarding topic sentences?
Readers generally look to the first few sentences to determine the subject and perspective of the paragraph
In some cases, the text suggests it's more effective to place another sentence before the topic sentence. Which of the following is an example given in the text?
A sentence providing background information
Study Notes
Paragraph Writing
- A paragraph is a group of organized sentences focusing on one central topic, following the cardinal rule of paragraph writing.
- A well-written paragraph takes the reader on a clear path without diversions, making it essential for writing effective essays, term papers, and stories.
Characteristics of Paragraphs
- Paragraphs are organized and coherent, related to a single topic, and can contain various kinds of information, such as examples, descriptions, narratives, comparisons, classifications, and cause-and-effect explanations.
Topic Sentences
- A topic sentence is a sentence that expresses the controlling idea of a paragraph, demonstrating or supporting an essay's thesis statement.
- Topic sentences unify the content of a paragraph, direct the order of sentences, and advise the reader of the subject to be discussed.
- Typically, topic sentences should be placed at the beginning of a paragraph, but in some cases, they can be preceded by linking or background information sentences.
- While most paragraphs should have a topic sentence, exceptions include paragraphs that narrate events, continue developing an idea introduced in a previous paragraph, or have sentences that clearly refer to a main point.
Learn the fundamental principles of writing effective paragraphs, including organizing sentences around a central topic and focusing on one idea per paragraph. Discover how to create coherent and structured paragraphs that lead readers through a clear path of information.
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