What is a Paragraph in Writing?

What is a Paragraph?

• A paragraph is a group of sentences that share a common idea and are written about a certain topic.
• It often includes examples or evidence to support a topic, idea, or opinion.

Characteristics of Effective Paragraphs

• A paragraph has a topic sentence that tells the reader what they'll be reading about, usually placed at the start of the paragraph.
• It gives a general overview of what the paragraph will cover and introduces an idea, topic, or opinion that will be explained throughout the rest of the paragraph.

Topic Sentence

• A topic sentence states the main idea of the paragraph and guides the reader on what to expect.
• It should be clear and concise, setting the tone for the rest of the paragraph.

Coherence

• Coherence means that the writing makes sense and ideas connect or work together to build or support a main idea.
• Sentences in a paragraph should be written in an order that makes sense, like building a tower with blocks.
• Effective paragraphs only include information about the topic being discussed, excluding random or unrelated sentences.

Transition Words

• Transition words help connect sentences together and guide the reader, adding to the coherence of a paragraph.
• They can show sequence, compare and contrast, and explain or add examples.
• Examples of transition words include:
  • Sequence: first, next, second, finally, meanwhile, after that, subsequently
  • Comparison and contrast: likewise, in the same way, similarly, unlike, otherwise, on the other hand, conversely
  • Adding detail or explanation: furthermore, additionally, also, especially, in particular, significantly, moreover