Writing Good Paragraphs
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What is a Paragraph |
| A Paragraph is a group of sentences about one main idea or topic. A paragraph might describe an event, present an arguement, or give facts about something |
The rules about writing good paragraphs are simple:
Indent the first line of every paragraph, or skip a line between paragraphs.
Start a new paragraph every time you move to a new idea.
With Dialogue, start a new paragraph when the speaker changes.
Paragraphs can contain three kinds of sentences.
The topic sentence tells what the paragraph is about. It is often the beginning sentence, but it can be anywhere in the paragraph.
Supporting sentences add details, or give more information about the topic of the paragraph.
The closing sentence sums up the topic or makes a comment about it.
Links about writing good paragraphs
Tips-O-Matic Paragraphs - This page is a bit advanced, but has excellent information on correct use of paragraphs in writing.
Vanier College Paragraph Tips - Again, this is from a University site, but the information about what makes a good paragraph is good.
Hampshire Middle School How to write a good Paragraph - A bit better, but still at a grade seven level.
ProTeacher "Guide to writing Good Paragraphs"
ThinkQuest "Paragraph" page.
Children's Writing Centre "What is a Paragraph"
Paragraph a Week - A yearly writing program with lots of topic to practice writing paragraphs