Paragraph structure - how to write a good paragraph

Paragraph structure - how to write a good paragraph

1. How to Write a Paragraph Learn the Basics of Building a Strong Paragraph!

2. What is a Paragraph?

3. Topic sentences should always contain both a  topic  and a  controlling idea . The  topic  typically occurs before the verb and is  “what the paragraph is about” , while the  controlling idea  is  “what you want to say about the topic” . The  controlling idea  should be repeated (preferably, in  “subject” position ) in each of the sentences that follow the topic sentence

4. 3.Topic sentences should always contain both a  topic  and a  controlling idea . The  topic  typically occurs before the verb and is  “what the paragraph is about” , while the  controlling idea  is  “what you want to say about the topic” . 4. The  controlling idea  should be repeated (preferably, in  “subject” position ) in each of the sentences that follow the topic sentence.

5. Practice: Read the following five sentences. One of them is a strong topic sentence, while the others are either too specific, too broad, or off-topic. Identify the best topic sentence and explain why it is the best choice. Traveling allows people to experience new cultures, try different foods, and meet new people. Many tourists visit Japan every year to see famous landmarks like Mount Fuji. I went to Thailand last summer and enjoyed the street food. Some people like traveling by plane, while others prefer taking a train. There are many countries in the world with beautiful landscapes. Many people like eating pizza. Some people follow vegetarian diets. Some people prefer texting over calling because it is convenient.

6. Identify a topic sentence in each of the following passages Passage 1: The Importance of Sleep Getting enough sleep is essential for maintaining good health. When people do not sleep enough, they may feel tired and have trouble concentrating. Studies show that sleep helps the brain process information and improves memory. Additionally, lack of sleep can lead to health problems like high blood pressure and a weakened immune system.

7. Passage 2: The Benefits of Learning a Second Language Learning a second language can open many opportunities in life. People who speak multiple languages can communicate with more people and understand different cultures. In addition, bilingual individuals often have better problem-solving skills and memory. Some research also suggests that learning another language can help delay cognitive decline as people age. 9

8. Passage 3: The Impact of Social Media Social media has changed the way people interact and communicate. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok allow users to share their thoughts, pictures, and videos instantly. While social media helps people stay connected, it can also be addictive and negatively impact mental health. Many people spend hours scrolling through their feeds, which can lead to decreased productivity and sleep issues.

9. Passage 4: Why Exercise is Important Regular exercise is important for a healthy lifestyle. It helps strengthen muscles, improve cardiovascular health, and boost energy levels. People who exercise regularly are also less likely to develop chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Additionally, exercise releases endorphins, which help reduce stress and improve mood. 11

10. Exercise: Writing a Topic Sentence Exercise – health – benefits Technology – communication – impact Travel – culture – experience Reading – vocabulary – learning Social media – influence – teenagers Fast food – health – effects Climate change – environment – global Education – future – success Music – emotions – relaxation Sports – teamwork – skills

11. Read each passage carefully. Write a strong topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. Passage 1: The Benefits of Drinking Water Water helps the body function properly by keeping organs hydrated and aiding digestion. It also helps regulate body temperature and flush out toxins. Doctors recommend drinking at least eight glasses of water a day to maintain good health. Staying hydrated can also improve skin condition and boost energy levels. ✏ Your Topic Sentence: _____________________________________________

12. Passage 2: The Advantages of Public Transportation Taking buses and trains can help reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. It is often cheaper than driving a personal car, especially when considering fuel and parking costs. Many cities offer well-connected public transport systems, making it easy for people to commute efficiently. Additionally, using public transportation allows passengers to relax, read, or work while traveling. ✏ Your Topic Sentence: _____________________________________________

13. Passage 3: The Impact of Fast Food on Health Eating fast food regularly can lead to health problems such as obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Many fast foods are high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt, which can negatively affect the body. While fast food is convenient, it often lacks essential nutrients that the body needs to stay healthy. ✏ Your Topic Sentence: _____________________________________________

14. Passage 4: The Importance of Recycling Recycling helps reduce waste and prevents harmful materials from polluting the environment. It also conserves natural resources by reusing materials like paper, plastic, and metal. Many governments encourage citizens to recycle by providing bins and organizing waste collection programs. Small actions like separating trash and reusing items can have a big impact on the planet. ✏ Your Topic Sentence: _____________________________________________

15. Passage 5: Why Reading Books is Beneficial Reading can expand knowledge and improve vocabulary skills. It helps develop creativity by allowing readers to explore different worlds and perspectives. Studies also show that reading reduces stress and improves focus. People who read regularly tend to have better critical thinking skills. ✏ Your Topic Sentence: _____________________________________________

16. BODY PARAGRAPH Learning English is one of the most important ways to better our future. Firstly, studying English is good for our future because it helps us get better jobs and allows us to travel easily. Many big companies need workers who can speak English because it is used all over the world. For example, if a student in Vietnam learns English well, they can work for a company like Google or Samsung and earn more money. Secondly, English makes traveling easier because it is spoken in many countries. If we go to places like the USA, Thailand, or Japan, we can use English to ask for directions, order food, and make new friends. In conclusion, learning English gives us more chances to have a good job and explore the world.

17. Learning English is one of the most important ways to better our future. Firstly, studying English is good for our future because it helps us get better jobs and allows us to travel easily. Many big companies need workers who can speak English because it is used all over the world. For example, if a student in Vietnam learns English well, they can work for a company like Google or Samsung and earn more money . Secondly, English makes traveling easier because it is spoken in many countries. If we go to places like the USA, Thailand, or Japan, we can use English to ask for directions, order food, and make new friends. In conclusion, learning English gives us more chances to have a good job and explore the world.

18. FILL IN THE BLANKS (1)_______________do not only bring about benefits. To store food over a long transporting process, manufacturers likely need to apply different (2) _____________methods. These methods often prioritize durability over (3)________, which can affect the natural taste and quality of the food. For example, fruits can be harvested before they are ripe for greater durability, because of which the flavours may not be at their best when delivered to (4)_____________ Consumers/ imported foods/ preservation/ freshness

19. Structure of a Paragraph 1. Topic Sentence: States the topic and controlling idea. Example: 'Reading books is a great way to relax and learn new things.' 2. PEE 1 (Point, Explanation, Example): - Point: First reason or idea. - Explanation: Details or reasons supporting the point. - Example: For example, a mystery novel can keep you engaged and entertained. 3. PEE 2 (Point, Explanation, Example): Point: Second reason or idea. - Explanation: More details supporting this point. - Example: For instance, biographies teach us about inspiring lives. 4. Concluding Sentence: Restates the main idea or gives a final thought. Example: 'That’s why reading is a great activity for both relaxation and education.'

20. Example Paragraph Outline Topic Sentence : Imported foods do not only bring about benefits. Pee 1 : Point : To store food over a long transporting process, manufacturers often need to apply preservation methods. Explanation : These methods prioritize durability over freshness, which can impact the natural taste and quality of the food. Example : For instance, fruits may be harvested before ripening for greater durability, which affects their flavor when delivered to consumers.

21. Pee 2 : Point : Preserving food for a long period requires advanced technology and strong manufacturing capability. Explanation : Not all companies have access to such technology, and failure to manage transportation and preservation costs can drive up prices for consumers. Example : For example, higher prices can cause importing businesses to lose their competitive edge against local producers.

22. Concluding Sentence : However, these challenges with food importation are likely to diminish over time, as the continued globalization makes advanced technologies more accessible and affordable than ever before.

23. Recap Remember: Every paragraph has a topic sentence, Pee 1, Pee 2, and a concluding sentence. Stick to one idea per paragraph. Use explanations and examples to support your points.

24. Thank you