Writing an Effective Paragraph

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Writing an Effective Paragraph
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A Paragraph is . .

• A group of sentences related to a single topic or
  controlling idea
• A unit of thoughts or ideas that contain a single
  focus
• A part of the whole essay

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What makes a paragraph effective?

• Paragraphs need to be focused on a unified and
  single topic.
• Paragraphs need to create bridges from previous
  ideas to new ideas
• Paragraphs need to develop logically, from
  introducing the controlling idea to developing
  the controlling idea.

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Use Topic Sentences

• Until you are an experienced writer, it is a good
  idea to begin your paragraph with a topic
  sentence in which you state a controlling idea.
• Refer to this frequently as you develop your
  paragraph.
• Make sure that your sentences support, expand on,
  or further develop your controlling idea.

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Use transitions

• Transitions take the reader from one idea to the
  next.
• They help maintain smooth readability.
• They help you segue into the next paragraph.

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Use Verbal Bridges

• Use key words that appear more than once in the
  paragraph.
• Use synonyms to reiterate the key words (try
  Thesaurus!).
• Use pronouns to help the reader refer to previous
  paragraphs or sentences.

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Check your form

• Use good sentences that use precise formats that
  are suitable for your topic (comparison/contrast
  persuasion examples description cause and
  effect process).

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Practice Time

• Below is an introduction to an essay. Read it
  carefully and then write the next paragraph.
• A community college serves neighborhoods in
  two very important ways through academic
  programs and through non-academic programs. The
  rising cost of college tuition, the increase in
  older students returning to school after a break,
  and the need for additional support for students
  who are not ready for the four-year institution
  make the community college a viable alternative
  in higher education. In addition, the community
  college is a resource for learning and enrichment
  for those who live within commuting distance.
  Both academically and non-academically, community
  colleges can serve the needs of neighboring
  communities with a variety of offerings.

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Works Cited

• Purdue University Online Writing Lab.
  lthttp//owl/english.purdue.edu/
• handout/general/gl_pgrph.html