Writing an Essay: Body Paragraphs and Conclusions

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of an introductory paragraph?

To analyze the main idea

To conclude the main argument

To provide background information and an overall plan (correct)

To summarize the supporting details

What is the main difference between inductive and deductive paragraphs?

The number of supporting sentences

The complexity of the topic

The purpose and structure of the paragraph (correct)

The tone of the writer

What is the primary function of a body paragraph?

To conclude the main argument

To summarize the supporting details

To develop and support the main idea (correct)

To introduce the main idea

What is the main goal of a concluding paragraph?

To summarize the main points Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the topic sentence and supporting sentences?

The supporting sentences explain the topic sentence Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of a body paragraph?

To center on a single subject Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of transitional markers in paragraph development?

To achieve coherence between sentences and paragraphs Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between an inductive and a deductive paragraph?

Their structure and organization Signup and view all the answers

What is the key to developing each type of paragraph?

Presenting a clear topic sentence and supporting sentences Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of a concluding paragraph?

To summarize the main points Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of a paragraph?

It is a group of sentences with a common idea Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a topic sentence?

To state the central idea of the paragraph Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of supporting sentences?

To expand on the topic sentence Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of an inductive paragraph?

It starts with evidence Signup and view all the answers

How many methods of paragraph development are identified by Carbello (2014)?

Eight Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between an introductory paragraph and a body paragraph?

Their purpose in the discourse Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of a paragraph's unity?

To relate all content to the main topic Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following techniques is used to achieve coherence in a paragraph?

Using transitional devices and key words Signup and view all the answers

What happens when a writer fails to develop a central point in a paragraph?

The paragraph becomes incomplete Signup and view all the answers

Why is emphasis important in a paragraph?

To ensure the central idea is given sufficient attention Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a topic sentence in a paragraph?

To introduce the main idea of the paragraph Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a paragraph?

Conciseness Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using transitional devices in a paragraph?

To connect ideas and achieve coherence Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of using transitional words and phrases in a paragraph?

A clearer structure of the paragraph Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Types of Paragraphs

A paragraph can be introductory, body, concluding, inductive, or deductive, depending on its structure and purpose.
An introductory paragraph provides background information and sets the tone for the discourse.
A body paragraph centers on a single subject and can sometimes flow into another paragraph.
A concluding paragraph summarizes the argument in the discourse.
An inductive paragraph starts with proof or reasons and culminates in the author's assertion.
A deductive paragraph is the converse of an inductive paragraph, starting with the author's assertion and supporting it with proofs.

Components of a Paragraph

A paragraph typically starts with a topic sentence, which summarizes the central idea.
Supporting sentences expand on the topic sentence.
Various techniques can be used to develop a paragraph, including definition, explanation, exemplification, simplification, description, comparison, and clarification.

Characteristics of a Paragraph

Unity: A paragraph must have a single main idea or topic.
Coherence: A paragraph must have a clear logical order and use transitional devices to achieve coherence.
Completeness: A paragraph must show evidence of a reasonable development of a central point.
Emphasis: The central idea of a paragraph must be emphasized and repeated throughout.

Techniques for Paragraph Development

Using facts and statistics
Providing examples and illustrations
Explaining processes
Making comparisons and contrasts
Identifying causes and effects
Classifying and analyzing
Defining and using analogies

Importance of Transitional Markers

Transitional markers such as "consequently", "meanwhile", "however", "furthermore" can be used to achieve coherence.
Key words can be repeated, and pronouns can be used as references to achieve coherence.

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Description

Learn about the structure of body paragraphs and conclusions in essay writing, including the importance of focusing on a single topic and summarizing the main argument.