Writing Body

Paragraphs

HOW IS THE BODY PARAGRAPH DIFFERENT?

• Of the three paragraphs--introductory, body and concluding-- the body is probably the easiest to write.

WHY?

Because . . .• You’ve been writing well constructed paragraphs for

many years• There’s a structure you can repeat over and over • You’ve created an outline with major points

highlighted• This is where you actually have to use reason and

logic.

HOWEVER…Writing body paragraphs takes more planning than the

introductory or concluding paragraph

Before you write a body paragraph, you need to make sure . . .

• That you have adequate and specific examples.

or• A short story to back up or illustrate your

thinking. and • A well organized paragraph, making sure

that your ideas are in the right order.

This is the format for the body paragraph which could include about 8 to 10 sentences and be of about 100 words in length.

a. Topic sentence

b. Supporting idea and examplec. Supporting idea and exampled. Supporting idea and examplee. Closing or Transition Sentence

Creating a Body Paragraph

• Brainstorm-create list of ideas• Categorize-use graphic organizers• Research-be sure you’re dealing with fact• Outline-organize into possible paragraphs• Write- compose body paragraphs• Transition-move from ideas flawlessly

Practice TopicLet’s say that the topic is… “All high school students should wear uniforms.”1st decide if you agree or disagree(form an opinion)

then start to brainstorm.

Brainstorma. Wearing uniforms is simpler, b. Wearing uniforms creates equality,c. Wearing uniforms creates unity

SimplerPrincipals

Students

ParentsPrincipals

Categorize and Research

Principals don’t have to waste so much time monitoring student dress.

Students don’t have to waste time deciding what they are going to wear to school.

Parents don’t have to spend a lot of money or time looking for expensive brand clothing.

Sample ParagraphWearing uniforms makes it much simpler for everyone involved. First, the principal does not have to deal with issues concerning the dress code. Parents don’t have to worry about purchasing designer clothes that will be out of fashion in less than 6 months. Finally, students don’t need a lot of time to plan what they’re going to wear each day.

What’s missing?

Transition Sentences• You do not transition after the THESIS• You do not transition before the CONCLUSION• Every other body paragraph should contain a

transition• Transitions take an idea from one paragraph

and connects it to the next• EXAMPLE: Not only are uniforms simpler for

everyone, but they also create a feeling of equality.

PRACTICETHESIS: Students today are much more

interested in social interaction than getting a good education.

Brainstorm: (3 ideas)HOMEWORK:Body Paragraph: choose one idea, write a

paragraph and then transition it into another idea (you only have to write ONE paragraph)