The common methods of paragraph development are: Definition Exemplification ( Illustration) Classification Cause Effect Cause-effect Comparison Contrast Comparison-contrast Negassi A., Berhe T. and Baraki H., Aksum University, DLJC: English Program 1
Main idea: The main idea of a paragraph is called the topic sentence. Like an arguable thesis statement, the topic sentence is a debatable claim that requires relevant support or evidence.
Just as an essay has a main idea (thesis statement) that is developed and supported with evidence and analysis in the body paragraphs, a paragraph needs to focus on a single idea that is developed and supported with evidence and analysis.
A clear and effective paragraph is constructed like an essay. Just as an essay has a main idea (thesis statement) that is developed and supported with evidence and analysis in the body paragraphs, a paragraph needs to focus on a single idea that is developed and supported with evidence and analysis.
Paragraph development continues with an expression of the rationale or the explanation that the writer gives for how the reader should interpret the information presented in the idea statement or topic sentence of the paragraph. The writer explains his/her thinking about the main topic, idea, or focus of the paragraph.
Narration is a method of paragraph development which recounts an event or a story of some sort. Example: A new venture has started. I am now in the real world of communication.
A paragraph with unity develops a single idea thoroughly and links it to the rest of the paper. Paragraph coherence is achieved when sentences are ordered in a logical manner and when clear transitions link sentences. Paragraph unity: Develop a paragraph around a major idea. Express this idea in the topic sentence.
In writing, the 5 main types of paragraphs In writing, the 5 main types of paragraphs are descriptive, narrative, persuasive, explanatory, and illustration based on their content and structure. Let us explore each in detail.
Introduction to Paragraph Development Paragraphs organize ideas in order to group like ones together; they create emphasis on the most important ideas; they think through complex ideas and theories, and paragraphs keep readers on track with the writer.
Narrative paragraphs tell about a scene or event, descriptive paragraphs give vivid descriptions of one subject, expository paragraphs provide information, and persuasive paragraphs try to convince the reader. These four paragraph types are powerful tools for writers.
Paragraph unity is the most important characteristic of a good paragraph. It defines that all sentences in a paragraph should speak about one single idea or one main subject. That is, the topic sentence, the supporting details, and the concluding sentence should focus on only one idea.
Unity is important because it aids the reader in following along with the writer's ideas. The reader can expect that a given paragraph will deal only with one main topic; when a new paragraph begins, this signals that the writer is moving on to a new topic.
One of the most common ways to develop your paragraphs is through the creation of an outline.
Description: Provide specific details about what something looks, smells, tastes, sounds, or feels like. Organize spatially, in order of appearance, or by topic. Process: Explain how something works, step by step. Perhaps follow a sequence—first, second, third.
In succession, the following paragraphs are narration, exposition, definition, classification, description, process analysis, and persuasion.
In general, paragraphs consist of three parts: the topic sentence, body sentences, and the concluding or the bridge sentence to the next paragraph or section.
The topic sentence should appear near the beginning of the paragraph since that sentence states the claim or idea to be discussed and developed in the content of the paragraph. This placement assures writers that the audience will not miss the significance of anything being presented and developed in the paragraph.
Link: The final sentence or sentences of the paragraph link the current paragraph’s main idea to the main idea in the next paragraph. This type of foreshadowing also prepares the audience for the next main idea. Since most body paragraphs are going to be followed by another body paragraph, the writer should consider using transitional phrases that help to link paragraphs. For example, transitional words such as however, so, thus, still, despite, nonetheless, although, but, even though or in spite of signal relationships between paragraphs and the relationship between the main ideas of all paragraphs.
The primary tools of evidence in rhetorical construction are definitions, examples, and opposing views.
Complete the paragraph. The final stage of developing a paragraph is to finish it by wrapping up loose ends and ensuring a transition.
A paragraph is a core writing block that helps to merge sentences into a single idea. Paragraphs follow a structure similar to that of an essay by offering an introduction, body, and conclusion. This organizational scheme helps the writer clearly present thoughts and arguments. A paragraph should be developed around a central idea with a focus on maintaining cohesiveness within the structure and including sentence transitions in order to achieve a high level of writing.
A good paragraph will help readers understand and enjoy a piece of writing. Such a paragraph contains all necessary elements, rang ing from an attention-grabber and supporting evidence to a strong conclusion that restates the idea. The unifying aspect of a paragraph as a unit of writing is significant to the construction and support of the writer’s thoughts on a matter.
Paragraph organization can vary depending on the author’s purpose. A narrative paragraph retells an event in chronological order. In comparison, a process describes a step-by-step guide on how something works. Descriptive and illustration paragraphs offer details and provide examples regarding a specific topic. Overall, even though these paragraph types achieve different aims, they possess a similar structure to that discussed above but vary according to their individual tone and purpose.
Conclusion. This part summarizes the information provided in the paragraph and draws a unified conclusion based on the information. This is the appropriate place to reflect on the topic and provide readers with specific thoughts. The conclusion should restate the topic and offer a transition to the next paragraph.
The combination of sentences in a well-developed paragraph should be unified by using transition words and following a logical flow of thought. A paragraph should not contain unnecessary information and should aim to be concise in developing the main idea.
Introductory and transitioning sentences in a paragraph contribute to the flow of the general thought process, ensuring that a reader’s attention is maintained.