How To Write A Paragraph Updated
How To Write A Paragraph Updated
How To Write A Paragraph Updated
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Background .............................................................................................................. 5
Instructions .............................................................................................................. 6
Writing a Sentence.................................................................................................... 7
Answering a Question ............................................................................................ 8
Expanding Your Sentences .................................................................................. 10
Writing a Paragraph ................................................................................................ 17
Transition Words Table ........................................................................................ 18
Writing a Descriptive Paragraph .............................................................................. 23
Descriptive Paragraph ExampleInvention .......................................................... 23
Descriptive Paragraph ExampleStructure ......................................................... 24
Descriptive Paragraph ExampleComposition ..................................................... 24
Writing a Biographical Paragraph ........................................................................... 35
Biographical Paragraph ExampleInvention........................................................ 35
Biographical Paragraph ExampleStructure ....................................................... 37
Biographical Paragraph ExampleComposition ................................................... 38
Writing a Cause and Effect Paragraph ..................................................................... 48
Cause and Effect Paragraph ExampleInvention ................................................. 48
Cause and Effect Paragraph ExampleStructure ................................................ 48
Cause and Effect Paragraph ExampleComposition ............................................ 49
Writing a Comparison Paragraph ............................................................................ 60
Comparison Paragraph ExampleInvention ........................................................ 60
Comparison Paragraph ExampleStructure ........................................................ 60
Comparison Paragraph ExampleComposition ................................................... 61
3
BACKGROUND
Unlike other paragraph writing curricula, How to Write a Paragraph teaches students
to write basic paragraphs based on information from their own experiences or from
subjects theyre studying in school.
This curriculum is suitable for all students that need to learn or review the
fundamentals of paragraph writing.
Note: Although there are other types of paragraphs, these paragraphs were selected
because they give students the opportunity to develop and practice the basic writing
skills that are needed for upper level writing.
INSTRUCTIONS
There are several ways to use How to Write a Paragraph. One is to work through the
text from the beginning to the end, completing the exercises as written.
Another option is to modify the exercises to accommodate your students course
work, basically using this text to help your student write across the curriculum.
As your student completes the exercises, please remember that the invention and
outline sections are tools to help your student develop and organize his thoughts for
the composition exercises. So if you have a student that can write a paragraph
without first creating an outline, encourage the student to complete the invention
and structure exercises anyway. Mastering these skills will help prepare your student
for essay writing in the future.
Students have to learn to identify problem areas in their thoughts and course correct
as necessary.
Each paragraph writing section has four areas of focusinvention, structure,
composition, and review.
Invention
The invention area helps students brainstorm ideas for their paragraph.
Structure
The structure area teaches students to place their ideas in outline form. (Even
though the invention tables are organized in such a way that students can write their
paragraphs without the outline, it is important that students create their outlines
first. Creating the outlines helps to teach students how outlines are written. And as
their writing becomes more complicated, the outlines will become more useful.)
Composition
Review
The final area is the review section. Students should be encouraged to review and
edit their own writing as much as possible.
WRITING A SENTENCE
A sentence is a group of words that are put together to convey meaning. Sentences
give information and answer questions. In order to be a sentence and not a phrase, it
must contain both a subject and a verb.
Example
The
The
The
The
The
dog barked.
cat meowed.
cow mooed.
waves crashed
sun set.
A subject is the topic spoken of, and the verb states something about the subject. In
all of the sentences above, the subjects are underlined once and the verbs twice.
ASSIGNMENT 1.1
For the subjects below, add a verb:
ANSWERING A QUESTION
One way to create a sentence is by askingthen answeringa question.
Example: Why are you having a party?
Correct: We are having a party because today is Janes birthday.
Incorrect: Because its Janes birthday.
The puppy
What:
When:
Where:
Why:
Once you know who, what, when, where, and why, you can make an amazing
sentence! To create the sentence, put the answers together until the sentence is
understandable. Remember, there is always more than one way to write a sentence.
Example:
ASSIGNMENT 1.3
For the subjects below, add what (did what or what happened), when, where, why,
and how.
1. Who ______Stacie_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
10
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
11
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
5. Who ______Books_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
12
6. Who ____Clowns__________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
7. Who ______Birds_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
13
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
9. Who ______Bob_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
14
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
15
16
WRITING A PARAGRAPH
When you write a group of sentences that develop a single idea, we call that a
paragraph.
When you write a paragraph, you typically follow three steps. First, you need to come
up with something to write about. We call this invention. Throughout this book, you
will use tables to come up with information to include in your paragraphs.
Second, you will organize your information into an outline. This is called structure
because the outline you create will determine the structure of your paragraph.
Typically, paragraph outlines have the following form.
I. Topic Sentence
A. Major detail
B. Major detail
C. Major detail
D. Concluding detail
Third, you compose your paragraph. When you write the paragraph, the first
sentence, although it doesnt have to be, is typically the topic sentence. The topic
sentence tells the reader what your paragraph is about. Next are the major details
from your outlineA, B, C, and D. The major details tell your readers all the details
you want them to know about your topic. And the conclusion is the final detail of
your paragraph. Often, the conclusion tells your readers what you just told them or
explains the overall point of the paragraph.
Another item you want to add to your paragraph is transitions. Transitions make the
difference between a well written paragraph and a poorly written paragraph. On the
following page, a table of transition words is available for your use.
These are not all of the transition words you can use, but a few to help you write your
paragraphs.
17
Purpose:
Type of Writing
Descriptive
Biographical
Comparison
Contrast
How to
18
A common illustration for a paragraph is a hamburger. The buns represent the topic
sentence and the concluding sentence. And the main ideas are represented by the
cheese, meat, burger, tomatoes, and lettuce. And just like you can add more food to
your burger, like bacon, you can add more details your paragraph.
Topic Sentence
Major detail
Major Detail
Major Detail
Concluding Sentence
19
ASSIGNMENT 2.1
Fill in the blanks with transition words or phrases of your own. If you need ideas to
determine transition words, use the table on page 18. Remember, the table does not
include all transition words and phrases, but only a few.
1. The two children went with their sleds to the top of a hill nearby.
______________ they found four boys, each of whom had a sled. The hill
was long and very smooth. _____________________, six children and six
sleds darted like arrows down the slope and across the white frozen field
to the brook. Each boy would shout for a clear track before he started, so
he would not hit anything as he went down. They kept up the sport and
_____________________ scattered to their homes.
2. An old Arabian story tells of a poor boy named Aladdin who gained
possession of a magic lamp. When this lamp was rubbed, a slave
appeared who provided anything that the owner demanded.
_____________________, Aladdin asked for rich food, splendid clothing,
precious stones, and a great palace. __________________________ all came
as he desired.
__________________________ Aladdin married the daughter of the ruler of
China, and thought his good fortune would never end.
__________________________ he carelessly allowed the precious lamp to
grow rusty, and _____________________ lost it. His wealth dwindled away,
his palace vanished into the air, and he became as poor as he had ever
been. __________________________ the careless man is likely to suffer.
21
22
Topic
Apple
Sight
Touch
Smell
fragrant, inviting
Taste
horrible, overripe
Sound
nothing
Concluding Opinion
23
E. Regret eating
In the basket,
When?
After I pick it up
Why?
Because it is overripe
THE APPLE
24
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words (Surprisingly, as a result, and the varied sentence openers, for
example, for instance, specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case,
like)
25
ASSIGNMENT 3.1
Describe a computer.
INVENTION
Topic
Sight
Touch
Smell
Taste
Sound
Concluding Opinion
STRUCTURE
Complete the Descriptive Paragraph Outline below. Remember if the topic is not
edible, you may exclude the sense of taste. Likewise, if it doesnt make a noise, you
may exclude sound.
1. Topic: Computer
A. Sight___________________________________________________
B. Touch__________________________________________________
C. Smell___________________________________________________
D. Taste___________________________________________________
E. Concluding Detail________________________________________
26
COMPOSITION
To create information for your sentence openers, answer where, when, or why for
your topic.
Where?
_______________________________________________________________________
When?
_______________________________________________________________________
Why?
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
27
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (Surprisingly, as a result, and the varied sentence openers,
for example, for instance, specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this
case, like)
Remember these words are suggestions. You may use others.
28
ASSIGNMENT 3.2
Describe a toy.
INVENTION
Topic
Apple
Sight
Touch
Smell
fragrant, inviting
Taste
horrible, overripe
Sound
nothing
Concluding Opinion
STRUCTURE
Complete the Descriptive Paragraph Outline below. Using the previous example,
create descriptive paragraphs for the topics below. If the topic is not edible, you may
exclude the sense of taste. Likewise, if it doesnt make a noise, you may exclude it.
29
COMPOSITION
To create information for your sentence openers, answer where, when, or why for
your topic.
Where?
_______________________________________________________________________
When?
_______________________________________________________________________
Why?
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
30
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (Surprisingly, as a result, and the varied sentence openers, for
example, for instance, specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case,
like)
Remember these words are suggestions. You may use others.
31
ASSIGNMENT 3.3
Describe a chocolate chip cookie. (Pick a different type of cookie if you wish.)
INVENTION
Topic
Apple
Sight
Touch
Smell
fragrant, inviting
Taste
horrible, overripe
Sound
nothing
Concluding Opinion
STRUCTURE
Complete the Descriptive Paragraph Outline below.
Using the previous example, create descriptive paragraphs for the topics below. If the
topic is not edible, you may exclude the sense of taste. Likewise, if it doesnt make a
noise, you may exclude it.
COMPOSITION
To create information for your sentence openers, answer where, when, or why for
your topic.
Where?
_______________________________________________________________________
When?
_______________________________________________________________________
Why?
_______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
33
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (Surprisingly, as a result, and the varied sentence openers, for
example, for instance, specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case,
like)
Remember these words are suggestions. You may use others.
34
Topic
A. Background
city, birth, parents
B. Education
school, natural abilities
C. Life experiences
D. Values
E. Impact on others
1.
2.
3.
4.
35
36
Ex.
D. Values
1. Was weak in body
2. Strong in mind
3. Persevered
37
38
ASSIGNMENT 4.1
Write a biographical paragraph for a person from your history studies.
INVENTION
Even though numbers have been added under the headings of background,
education, life experiences, and values, you do not have to use every number.
Topic
1.
A. Background
city, birth, parents
2.
3.
1.
B. Education
2.
4.
1
2.
C. Life experiences
3.
4.
1.
D. Values
2.
3.
E. Impact on others
39
STRUCTURE
I. Topic:_____________________________________________
A.________________________________________________
B.________________________________________________
C.________________________________________________
D.________________________________________________
Clincher
E.________________________________________________
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
40
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (and, namely, for instance, in fact, specifically, generally,
sometimes, in particular, for example, later, after, soon)
41
ASSIGNMENT 4.2
Write a biographical paragraph about an author.
INVENTION
Even though numbers have been added under the headings of background,
education, life experiences, and values, you do not have to use every number.
Topic
1.
A. Background
city, birth, parents
2.
3.
1.
B. Education
2.
4.
1
2.
C. Life experiences
3.
4.
1.
D. Values
2.
3.
E. Impact on others
42
STRUCTURE
I. Topic:_____________________________________________
A.________________________________________________
B.________________________________________________
C.________________________________________________
D.________________________________________________
Clincher
E.________________________________________________
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
43
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (and, namely, for instance, in fact, specifically, generally,
sometimes, in particular, for example, later, after, soon)
44
ASSIGNMENT 4.3
Write a biographical paragraph about a scientist or an inventor.
INVENTION
Even though numbers have been added under the headings of background,
education, life experiences, and values, you do not have to use every number.
Topic
1.
A. Background
city, birth, parents
2.
3.
1.
B. Education
2.
4.
1
2.
C. Life experiences
3.
4.
1.
D. Values
2.
3.
E. Impact on others
45
STRUCTURE
I. Topic:_____________________________________________
A.________________________________________________
B.________________________________________________
C.________________________________________________
D.________________________________________________
Clincher
E.________________________________________________
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
46
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (and, namely, for instance, in fact, specifically, generally,
sometimes, in particular, for example, later, after, soon)
47
1st Effect
2nd Effect
3rd Effect
48
49
ASSIGNMENT 5.1
Write a cause and effect paragraph explaining why it is important to get enough
sleep. In your paragraph tell three things that happen when children dont get
enough sleep or how sleep helps them. Your final sentence should restate the
importance of getting enough sleep.
INVENTION
Cause
1st Effect
2nd Effect
3rd Effect
STRUCTURE
I. ____________________________________________________
A. _________________________________________________
B. _________________________________________________
C. _________________________________________________
D. _________________________________________________
Clincher E. ________________________________________
50
COMPOSITION
Using the information above, write your cause and effect paragraph.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
51
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (as a result, in that case, thus, because of, hence, then,
therefore, accordingly, consequently, initially, while, when, new, before, recent,
next, finally, soon)
Remember these transitions words are only sections. You may use others that are
not on the list.
52
ASSIGNMENT 5.2
Write a cause and effect paragraph explaining why it is important to eat a good diet.
In your paragraph tell three things that happen when people dont eat well. Your final
sentence should restate the importance of a good diet.
INVENTION
Cause
1st Effect
2nd Effect
3rd Effect
STRUCTURE
I. ____________________________________________________
A. _________________________________________________
B. _________________________________________________
C. _________________________________________________
D. _________________________________________________
Clincher E. ________________________________________
53
COMPOSITION
Using the information above, write your cause and effect paragraph.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
54
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (as a result, in that case, thus, because of, hence, then,
therefore, accordingly, consequently, initially, while, when, new, before, recent,
next, finally, soon)
Remember these transitions words are only sections. You may use others that are
not on the list.
55
ASSIGNMENT 5.3
Write a cause and effect paragraph explaining why it is important that children
spend time reading every day. Discuss the effects that reading has on the mind. Your
final sentence should restate the importance of reading.
INVENTION
Cause
1st Effect
2nd Effect
3rd Effect
STRUCTURE
I. ____________________________________________________
A. _________________________________________________
B. _________________________________________________
C. _________________________________________________
D. _________________________________________________
Clincher E. ________________________________________
56
COMPOSITION
Using the information above, write your cause and effect paragraph.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
57
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (as a result, in that case, thus, because of, hence, then,
therefore, accordingly, consequently, initially, while, when, new, before, recent,
next, finally, soon)
Remember these transitions words are only sections. You may use others that are
not on the list.
58
59
TOPIC
Detail 1
Detail 2
Detail 3
Concluding Detail
60
Cats and dogs are very similar. Both animals are mammals, and
have similar body structure. They have fur, four legs, and a tail. Also,
both animals are designed for living outside. They both breathe air, and
they both know how to hunt for food. Like other mammals, cats and dogs
give birth to live young; however, unlike many other mammals, cats and
dogs can be domesticated. Both can live indoors with humans, making
them fantastic pets.
61
ASSIGNMENT 6.1
Write a comparison paragraph, comparing two people from history.
INVENTION
TOPIC
Detail 1
Detail 2
Detail 3
Concluding Detail
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary.
I. ____________________________________________________
A. _________________________________________________
B. _________________________________________________
C. _________________________________________________
D. _________________________________________________
Clincher E. ________________________________________
62
COMPOSITION
Write your own comparison paragraph. Make sure you include at least three
sentences to back up your claim.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
63
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words: also, likewise, similarly, so too, in the same way, both, and,
each
(These are just examples of transitions words you may use.)
64
ASSIGNMENT 6.2
Write a comparison paragraph, comparing two inventions or two physical items, such
as a pencil and a pen.
INVENTION
TOPIC
Detail 1
Detail 2
Detail 3
Concluding Detail
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify them if necessary.
I. ____________________________________________________
A. _________________________________________________
B. _________________________________________________
C. _________________________________________________
D. _________________________________________________
Clincher E. __________________________________________________
65
COMPOSITION
Write your own comparison paragraph. Make sure you include at least three
sentences to back up your claim.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
66
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words: also, likewise, similarly, so too, in the same way, both, and,
each
(These are just examples of transitions words you may use.)
67
ASSIGNMENT 6.3
Write a comparison paragraph, comparing two animals .
INVENTION
TOPIC
Detail 1
Detail 2
Detail 3
Concluding Detail
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary.
I. __________________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
Clincher
E. ___________________________________________
68
COMPOSITION
Write your own comparison paragraph. Make sure you include at least three
sentences to back up your claim.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
69
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words: also, likewise, similarly, so too, in the same way, both, and,
each
(These are just examples of transitions words you may use.)
70
71
TOPICS
CATS
DOGS
1st Difference
Meow
Bark
2nd Difference
3rd Difference
4th Difference
Dogs have to be
potty trained
72
Cats and dogs are very different animals even though they are both
mammals. One difference is the way they sound; dogs bark while cats
meow. Another difference is in the way their claws are made. Cats have
the ability to extend and retract their claws. Dogs do not. Also, cats have
the ability to jump very high and climb trees. Dogs, on the other hand,
tend to spend all of their time on the ground. One final difference is how
they are potty trained. Actually, cats do not have to be potty trained at
all. If you give a cat a litter box, they instinctively know what to do. On
the other hand, dogs typically take a while, and a few accidents, to potty
train. Regardless of the differences, however, they both make great pets.
73
ASSIGNMENT 7.1
Write a contrast paragraph, contrasting two people, real or imaginary.
INVENTION
TOPICS
1st Difference
2nd Difference
3rd Difference
4th Difference
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary.
I. ______________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
Clincher
E. ___________________________________________
74
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
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75
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (although, however, but, despite, even so, in contrast, instead,
nevertheless, notwithstanding, on the other hand, regardless, still, though, yet)
(These are examples of the types of transition words that you may use for contrast
paragraphs. Remember there are others not listed.)
76
ASSIGNMENT 7.2
Write a contrast paragraph, contrasting two foods.
INVENTION
Differences between Cats and Dogs
TOPICS
1st Difference
2nd Difference
3rd Difference
4th Difference
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary.
I. ______________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
Clincher
E. ___________________________________________
77
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
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_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
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_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
78
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (although, however, but, despite, even so, in contrast, instead,
nevertheless, notwithstanding, on the other hand, regardless, still, though, yet)
(These are examples of the types of transition words that you may use for contrast
paragraphs. Remember there are others not listed.)
79
ASSIGNMENT 7.3
Write a contrast paragraph, contrasting two stories, real or imaginary.
INVENTION
Differences between Cats and Dogs
TOPICS
1st Difference
2nd Difference
3rd Difference
4th Difference
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary.
I. ______________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
Clincher
E. ___________________________________________
80
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
81
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (although, however, but, despite, even so, in contrast, instead,
nevertheless, notwithstanding, on the other hand, regardless, still, though, yet)
(These are examples of the types of transition words that you may use for contrast
paragraphs. Remember there are others not listed.)
82
83
Topic
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Step 7
84
85
86
ASSIGNMENT 8.1
Write a How to paragraph, telling how to perform a chore such as make a bed or
clean dishes. (Another option is how to perform a science experiment.)
INVENTION
You do not have to have ten steps. Use as many steps as you need for
your topic.
Topic
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Step 7
Step 8
Step 9
Step 10
87
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary. Note: Place your clincher on your final item. You do not have to
use all of the lines below.
I. ______________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
E. ___________________________________________
F. ___________________________________________
G. __________________________________________
H. __________________________________________
I. ___________________________________________
J. ___________________________________________
88
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
89
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (first, second, next, finally, now, for example, for instance,
specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case, like, in no time, once)
90
ASSIGNMENT 8.2
Write a How to paragraph, telling how to cook a recipe.
INVENTION
You do not have to have ten steps. Use as many steps as you need for
your topic.
Topic
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Step 7
Step 8
Step 9
Step 10
91
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary. Note: Place your clincher on your final item. You do not have to
use all of the lines below.
I. ______________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
E. ___________________________________________
F. ___________________________________________
G. __________________________________________
H. __________________________________________
I. ___________________________________________
J. ___________________________________________
92
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
93
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (first, second, next, finally, now, for example, for instance,
specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case, like, in no time, once)
94
ASSIGNMENT 8.3
Write a How to paragraph, telling how to perform a physical activity, such as
shooting a basketball, swimming, dancing, roller skating, or walking.
INVENTION
You do not have to have ten steps. Use as many steps as you need for
your topic.
Topic
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Step 7
Step 8
Step 9
Step 10
95
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary. Note: Place your clincher on your final item. You do not have to
use all of the lines below.
I. ______________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
E. ___________________________________________
F. ___________________________________________
G. __________________________________________
H. __________________________________________
I. ___________________________________________
J. ___________________________________________
96
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
97
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: started to, began to, and then
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (first, second, next, finally, now, for example, for instance,
specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case, like, in no time, once)
98
99