How To Write A Paragraph Final-2

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TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Background .................................................................................................................................. 6
Instructions .................................................................................................................................. 7
Writing a Sentence ....................................................................................................................... 9
Answering a Question ............................................................................................................ 10
Expanding Your Sentences ..................................................................................................... 12
Writing a Paragraph ................................................................................................................... 19
Transition Words Table .......................................................................................................... 20
Writing a Descriptive Paragraph ................................................................................................ 23
Descriptive Paragraph Example—Invention ........................................................................... 23
Descriptive Paragraph Example—Structure ........................................................................... 24
Descriptive Paragraph Example—Composition ...................................................................... 24
Writing a Biographical Paragraph .............................................................................................. 35
Biographical Paragraph Example—Invention ......................................................................... 35
Biographical Paragraph Example—Structure ......................................................................... 36
Biographical Paragraph Example—Composition .................................................................... 37
Writing a Cause and Effect Paragraph ........................................................................................ 50
Cause and Effect Paragraph Example—Invention .................................................................. 50
Cause and Effect Paragraph Example—Structure ....................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Cause and Effect Paragraph Example—Composition ............................................................. 51
Writing a Comparison Paragraph ............................................................................................... 61
Comparison Paragraph Example—Invention .......................................................................... 61
Comparison Paragraph Example—Structure .......................................................................... 61
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Comparison Paragraph Example—Composition ..................................................................... 62
Writing a Contrast Paragraph ..................................................................................................... 72
Contrast Paragraph Example—Invention ............................................................................... 72
Contrast Paragraph Example—Structure ............................................................................... 72
Contrast Paragraph Example—Composition .......................................................................... 73
Writing a “How to” Paragraph ................................................................................................... 83
“How To” Paragraph Example—Invention ............................................................................. 83
“How To” Paragraph Example—Structure .............................................................................. 84
“How To” Paragraph Example—Composition ........................................................................ 85

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BACKGROUND
How to Write a Paragraph teaches students the fundamentals of paragraph writing. Students
learn the basic structure of a paragraph—topic sentence, supporting details, and clincher or
concluding sentence.
The lessons are structured so that students learn about paragraphs by writing paragraphs of
various types. As they complete the exercises, students will learn how to brainstorm their
topic, create an outline, write their paragraph, and edit their writing.
Paragraph Structures Included
This text covers six different types of paragraphs:
 The Descriptive Paragraph
 The Biographical Paragraph
 The Cause and Effect Paragraph
 The Comparison Paragraph
 The Contrast Paragraph
 The “How to” Paragraph
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 they’re
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.
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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 student’s 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 focus—invention, 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
Based on their outline, students write their composition.
 Review
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The final area is the review section. Students should be encouraged to review and edit their
own writing as much as possible.
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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 dog barked.
The cat meowed.
The cow mooed.
The waves crashed
The 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:
1. The man __________________________________________________________________.
2. The woman ________________________________________________________________.
3. My pet ____________________________________________________________________.
4. Little boys _________________________________________________________________.
5. Little girls _________________________________________________________________.
For the verbs below, add a subject:
1. _____________________________ scurried with fear.
2. _____________________________ laughed loudly as he left the room.
3. _____________________________ soared above the clouds.
3. _____________________________ repeatedly tapped his finger on the table.
5. _____________________________ grabbed the mic and loudly sang off‐key.
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ANSWERING A QUESTION
One way to create a sentence is by asking…then answering…a question.
Example: Why are you having a party?
Correct: We are having a party because today is Jane’s birthday.
Incorrect: Because it’s Jane’s birthday.
If you were to answer the question with—because it is Jane’s birthday—your answer would not
be a sentence.
ASSIGNMENT 1.2
Use complete sentences to provide answers for the questions below. Remember you must
have a subject and a verb.
1. How did you get to school today?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
2. When will we go on the field trip?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
3. Who is coming to the pizza party?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
4. What kind of dog do you have?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________

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5. Where did Nick go during summer vacation?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
6. Why did Marilyn buy a new camper?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
What are you wearing to school tomorrow?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
7. Where is your cat hiding?
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________

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EXPANDING YOUR SENTENCES
To expand a sentence, you add more information. One way is to include information that tells
Who, What (did what or what happened), When, Where, and Why.
Look at the example below:
Who: The puppy
What: knocked on the door
When: yesterday
Where: of my van
Why: because he wanted me to stay home.
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: Yesterday the puppy knocked on the door of my van because he
wanted me to stay home.
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 ____________________________________________________
Use your answers to compose interesting sentences.
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________

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2. Who ______The cake______________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________

4. Who ______School work____________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________

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3. Who ____My best friend___________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
5. Who ______Books_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________

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6. Who ____Clowns__________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
7. Who ______Birds_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________

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8. Who ____A school bus full of children__________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
9. Who ______Bob_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________

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10. Who ____The wind_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
11. Who ______My pet _______________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________

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WRITING A PARAGRAPH

A group of sentences that develop a single idea is a paragraph.
To compose a paragraph, you typically follow three steps.
 First, you come up with something to write about. This is called invention.
 Second, you 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 doesn’t 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 outline—labeled A, B, C, and D in the outline above. 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.
As you write the sentences of your paragraph, you will incorporate transition words. Transition
words often make the difference between a well written paragraph and a poorly written
paragraph. Transition words link ideas within your paragraph, allowing your sentences to flow
smoothly from one detail to the next. On the following page, a table of transition words is
available for your use.
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TRANSITION WORDS TABLE

Type of Paragraph Transition Words or Phrase
Surprisingly, as a result, and the varied sentence
Descriptive openers, for example, for instance, specifically, to
illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case, like
and, namely, for instance, in fact, specifically, generally,
Biographical
sometimes, in particular, for example, later, after, soon
as a result, in that case, thus, because of, hence, then,
Cause and Effect therefore, accordingly, consequently, initially, while,
when, new, before, recent, next, finally, soon
also, likewise, similarly, so too, in the same way, both,
Comparison
and, each
although, however, but, despite, even so, in contrast,
Contrast instead, nevertheless, notwithstanding, on the other
hand, regardless, still, though, yet
for example, for instance, specifically, to illustrate, thus,
How to
in short, even, in this case, like, now, in no time, once

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A common illustration for a paragraph is a sandwich. The buns represent the topic sentence
and the concluding sentence. The main ideas are represented by the cheese, meat, tomatoes,
and lettuce. In the same way you may add more food to your sandwich, like bacon, you may
add more details your paragraph.
Topic Sentence

Major detail

Major Detail

Major Detail

Concluding Sentence

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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 20. 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 of
the lamp 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.

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WRITING A DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH

A paragraph that describes is known as a descriptive paragraph. To write a descriptive
paragraph, you tell your readers how the item you are describing appeals to the senses—how
it looks, sounds, tastes, smells, or feels. These qualities make up the major details of your
outline. (Note: You do not have to include all of the senses in every paragraph. Sometimes you
may only incorporate information relating to one or two senses.)
If you have a topic that appeals to only one sense, such as a painting, then you should list that
one sense five times. When referring to the sense of sight for a painting, you will describe the
first detail on the painting, such as the trees. For the second detail, you will describe a second
item in the painting, such as the sky. For the third sight detail, you may describe the rocky path,
and so on.
DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION
Topic Apple
Sight large, round, red, ripe
Touch cold, smooth, firm
Smell fragrant, inviting
Taste horrible, overripe
Sound nothing
Concluding Opinion wish I hadn’t eaten it

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DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE
I. Topic: Apple
A. Large, round, red, ripe.
B. Cold, smooth, firm
C. Fragrant and inviting
D. Horrible, overripe.
Clincher E. Regret eating
DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION
When writing the sentences for your paragraph, ask yourself where, when, how, or why as you
write. These additional details will help you write varied types of sentences, making your
paragraph more interesting to read.
THE APPLE
In the basket, I spy an exceptionally large, red apple. I pick it up. The apple feels cool,
smooth, and firm to the touch. The fragrant smell invites me to taste it. Eagerly, I bite it. Upon
tasting it, I learn that it is horrible and disgustingly overripe. Because it is overripe, it tastes like
old, stale applesauce. Obviously, I am sorry that I ate it.
Where? In the basket,
When? Upon tasting it
Why? Because it is overripe

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DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph. As you edit and improve your paragraph,
mark off the column on the right.

Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line. X
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then” X
Capitalization X
Punctuation X
Spelling X
Varied Sentence Openers X
Transition Words X

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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 doesn’t make a noise, you may exclude sound.
I. Topic: ______________________________________________________________________
A. Sight_____________________________________________________________________
B. Touch____________________________________________________________________
C. Smell_____________________________________________________________________
D. Sound____________________________________________________________________
E. Concluding Detail___________________________________________________________

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COMPOSITION
To compose more interesting sentences, ask yourself where, when, how, or why as you write.
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
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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

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ASSIGNMENT 3.2
Describe an unusual toy.
INVENTION

Topic
Sight
Touch
Smell
Taste
Sound
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 doesn’t make a noise, you may exclude it.
I. Topic: ______________________________________________________________________
A. Sight_____________________________________________________________________
B. Touch____________________________________________________________________
C. Smell_____________________________________________________________________
D. Sound____________________________________________________________________

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COMPOSITION
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
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REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

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ASSIGNMENT 3.3
Describe a chocolate chip cookie. (Pick a different type of cookie if you wish.)
INVENTION

Topic
Sight
Touch
Smell
Taste
Sound
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 doesn’t make a noise, you may
exclude it.
I. Topic: ______________________________________________________________________
A. Sight_____________________________________________________________________
B. Touch____________________________________________________________________
C. Smell_____________________________________________________________________
D. Taste_____________________________________________________________________

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COMPOSITION
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
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REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

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WRITING A BIOGRAPHICAL PARAGRAPH

To give someone an understanding of the life and character of a person, we write a biography.
To write a biographical paragraph, include information about the person’s background (birth
and death), education, values, and accomplishments.
BIOGRAPHICAL PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION

Topic James Watt, inventor of modern steam engine
A. Background 1. born at Greenock in 1736
city, birth, parents 2. father ship owner
1. weak child, homeschooled,
B. Education 2. natural with math and machines,
school, natural abilities 3. became apprentice to mathematical
4. instrument maker in London
1. at 23, studied steam engine, 1759
2. at 33, patented his improved engine, 1769
C. Life experiences 3. later opened engine shop, with Boulton, Birmingham
4. 1800 retired wealthy
5. died 1819, at Heathfield, near Birmingham
1. hard work,
D. Values
2. persevered
E. Impact on others Changed the world by making engines efficient

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BIOGRAPHICAL PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE

I. Introduce James Watt, invented modern steam engine
A. Background
1. Born 1736 Greenock
2. Father ship owner
B. Education
1. Weak child, homeschooled
2. Natural in math and machines
3. At 19, apprentice mathematical instrument maker in London
C. Life Experiences
1. At 23, studied steam engine
2. At 33, patented his improved engine,
3. Later opened engine shop,
4. 1800 retired wealthy
5. Died 1819
D. Values
1. Hard worker
2. Persevered
E. Impact, changed the world with his contributions

In case you did not notice, when you create an outline, and want to add major details
under a heading, as was done in the previous paragraphs, you list the major details
under the first letter of the heading. The major details below are numbered 1, 2, and 3.
Ex. D. Values
1. Was weak in body
2. Was strong in mind
3. Persevered

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BIOGRAPHICAL PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION
James Watt, the chief inventor of the steam‐engine, was born at Greenock in 1736. His
father was a ship owner. As James was weak as a child, he was educated at home. Eventually,
he showed an aptitude for mathematics and machines. In 1755 he was sent to London to learn
the trade of a mathematical instrument maker. Ill‐health compelled him to return to Glasgow
in 1756, where he worked as a mathematical instrument maker. Later, in 1759 at the age of 23,
he began to study the steam‐engine. Ten years later, in 1769, he patented his improved steam
engine. With his business partner Matthew Boulton, he designed engine works near
Birmingham and became very prosperous. He later retired from business in 1800, and died at
Heathfield, near Birmingham, in 1819. James Watt, although thought to be physically weak,
proved himself to be mentally strong. He was very studious and persevered through his
weaknesses. Because Watts made the steam engine, which had an impact on every other
industry, more efficient, Watts literally changed the world.

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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 2.
city, birth, parents
3.
1.
2.
B. Education
school, natural abilities 3.
4.
1
2.
C. Life experiences
3.
4.
1.
D. Values 2.
3.
E. Impact on others

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STRUCTURE
I. Topic:____________________________________________________________
A._______________________________________________________________
B._______________________________________________________________
C._______________________________________________________________
D._______________________________________________________________
Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________
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COMPOSITION
Using your outline, write your biographical paragraph.
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
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REVIEW

Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
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
Topic
1.
A. Background 2.
3.
1.
2.
B. Education
4.
1
2.
C. Life experiences
3.
4.
1.
D. Values 2.
3.
E. Impact on others

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STRUCTURE
I. Topic:____________________________________________________________
A._______________________________________________________________
B._______________________________________________________________
C._______________________________________________________________
D._______________________________________________________________
Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________
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COMPOSITION
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
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REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words (and, namely, for instance, in fact, specifically, generally, sometimes, in
particular, for example, later, after, soon)

45
ASSIGNMENT 4.3
Write a biographical paragraph about a scientist or an inventor.
INVENTION
Topic
1.
A. Background 2.
3.
1.
2.
B. Education
4.
1
2.
C. Life experiences
3.
4.
1.
D. Values 2.
3.
E. Impact on others

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STRUCTURE
I. Topic:____________________________________________________________
A._______________________________________________________________
B._______________________________________________________________
C._______________________________________________________________
D._______________________________________________________________
Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________
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COMPOSITION
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
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REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

49
WRITING A CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH

A cause and effect paragraph is one that allows you to look at one event (or cause) and then
write about things that happen because of it. Basically, you are writing about the effects that
the cause did create or will create.
First, you state your cause and then list at least three effects. To make a really good paragraph,
you should also add information that explains the effects. You can think of this as two ideas per
effect. One to state the effect, and one to explain it.
CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION

Cause Regular exercise valuable
1st Effect Helps maintain healthy weight, prevent diseases
2nd Effect Releases good chemicals in your brain
3rd Effect Gives more muscles
CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE

I. Exercise keeps you healthy, happy, strong
A. Helps maintain healthy weight, prevents
diseases.
B. Releases good chemicals in your brain
C. Produces more muscles
Clincher D. Exercise creates improvements
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CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION
Exercise is very important because it will keep you healthy, happy, and strong. From
modern research, most people know that exercise is important for maintaining a healthy
weight and preventing diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. In addition to these
health benefits, when people exercise, their bodies produce chemicals called endorphins.
Endorphins are natural chemicals that make one feel happier and more positive about life.
These chemicals also help alleviate pain. A final benefit of exercise is that it helps to maintain
and even increase muscle mass. Exercising creates positive changes in both one’s body and
mind.

51
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 don’t 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. Topic:____________________________________________________________
A._______________________________________________________________
B._______________________________________________________________
C._______________________________________________________________
D._______________________________________________________________
Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

52
COMPOSITION
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53
REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

54
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 don’t eat well. Your final sentence should
restate the importance of a good diet.
INVENTION

Cause
1st Effect
2nd Effect
3rd Effect
STRUCTURE
I. Topic:____________________________________________________________
A._______________________________________________________________
B._______________________________________________________________
C._______________________________________________________________
D._______________________________________________________________
Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________
55
COMPOSITION
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56
REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

57
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. Topic:____________________________________________________________
A._______________________________________________________________
B._______________________________________________________________
C._______________________________________________________________
D._______________________________________________________________
Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

58
COMPOSITION
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REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

60
WRITING A COMPARISON PARAGRAPH

A comparison paragraph shows how two things are alike or similar. When you write a
comparison paragraph, you should state the two things you are comparing and then support
that statement with details that explain how they are similar.
COMPARISON PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION

TOPIC CAT AND DOG SIMILARITIES
both mammals‐‐have similar body structure
Detail 1
fur, tail, and four legs
Detail 2 designed for life outside
Detail 3 give birth to live young
Concluding Detail can be domesticated, make great pets

COMPARISON PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE

I. Cats and dogs similar.
A. Mammals, fur, four legs, tail__
B. Designed for living outside, breathe air, hunt _
C. Give birth to live young
Clincher D. Domesticated, make great pets!

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COMPARISON PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION
Cats and dogs are very similar. Both animals are mammals, and have similar body
structure‐‐fur, four legs, and a tail. Also, both animals are designed for living outside. They both
breathe air, and they both 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. Because
both cats and dogs can live indoors with humans, they make fantastic pets.

62
ASSIGNMENT 6.1
Write a comparison paragraph, comparing two people from history.
INVENTION

TOPIC
Detail 1
Detail 2
Detail 3
Concluding Detail

STRUCTURE
I. Topic:____________________________________________________________
A._______________________________________________________________
B._______________________________________________________________
C._______________________________________________________________
D._______________________________________________________________
Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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COMPOSITION
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REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

65
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
I. Topic:____________________________________________________________
A._______________________________________________________________
B._______________________________________________________________
C._______________________________________________________________
D._______________________________________________________________
Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

66
COMPOSITION
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67
REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

68
ASSIGNMENT 6.3
Write a comparison paragraph, comparing two animals .
INVENTION

TOPIC
Detail 1
Detail 2
Detail 3
Concluding Detail
STRUCTURE
I. Topic:____________________________________________________________
A._______________________________________________________________
B._______________________________________________________________
C._______________________________________________________________
D._______________________________________________________________
Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

69
COMPOSITION
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REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

71
WRITING A CONTRAST PARAGRAPH

A contrast paragraph shows how two things are different. In a contrast paragraph, you state
the things that are different and then support that claim with at least three examples that
show the differences.
CONTRAST PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION
Differences between Cats and Dogs

TOPICS CATS DOGS
1st Difference Meow Bark
2nd Difference Cats can retract their Dogs cannot retract claws.
cats can jump and climb
3rd Difference dogs stay on the ground
trees
Cats potty train Dogs have to be potty
4th Difference
themselves trained

CONTRAST PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE

I. Cats and dogs, different
A. Cats meow, dogs bark
B. Cats retract claws, dogs cannot
C. Cats jump high, climb trees, dogs ground
Clincher D. Cats potty train selves, dogs do not

72
CONTRAST PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION
Cats and dogs are very different animals even though they are both mammals. They are
different in 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, both dogs and cats 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
I. Topic:____________________________________________________________
A._______________________________________________________________
B._______________________________________________________________
C._______________________________________________________________
D._______________________________________________________________
Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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COMPOSITION
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75
REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

76
ASSIGNMENT 7.2
Write a contrast paragraph, contrasting two foods.
INVENTION


TOPICS
1st Difference
2nd Difference
3rd Difference
4th Difference
STRUCTURE
I. Topic:____________________________________________________________
A._______________________________________________________________
B._______________________________________________________________
C._______________________________________________________________
D._______________________________________________________________
Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

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COMPOSITION
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78
REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

79
ASSIGNMENT 7.3
Write a contrast paragraph, contrasting two stories, real or imaginary.
INVENTION


TOPICS
1st Difference
2nd Difference
3rd Difference
4th Difference
STRUCTURE
I. Topic:____________________________________________________________
A._______________________________________________________________
B._______________________________________________________________
C._______________________________________________________________
D._______________________________________________________________
Clincher E.___________________________________________________________________

80
COMPOSITION
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REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

82
WRITING A “HOW TO” PARAGRAPH

A “how to” paragraph teaches your reader how to do something new. In a “how to”
paragraph, you will give your reader steps to follow so that they can learn a new skill.
Now it’s your turn to be the expert! Choose a topic, and start your title with “How to.” Add
a sentence or two to introduce or explain your topic. Then number the steps in your
paragraph, and start each step with a command.
“HOW TO” PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION
Topic How to Hang a Picture
Step 1 Ask friend to hold picture to help find a spot.
Step 2 Pick the spot you want to put picture.
On wall, place mark along the top of the frame in the
Step 3
center.
Measure distance from the top of the frame to the bracket
Step 4
on back.
Step 5 Measure the same distance from the 1st mark on the wall.
Step 6 Make a second small mark on the wall.
Step 7 Pound nail ¼ in. into wall on second mark.

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“HOW TO” PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE

I. Hanging pictures make house feel homey.
A. Ask friend to hold picture against wall,
B. Pick the spot you want
C. On top of frame, near center, small mark
on the wall,
D. Measure distance top of frame to bracket
on back.
E. On wall, measure same distance down from
the first mark
F. Make a second small mark on wall.
G. Pound nail into wall, leaving abt ¼ in. out.
Clincher H. Hang your picture

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“HOW TO” PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION
How to Hang a Picture
When a house has pictures on the walls, the pictures make the house feel homier. To
acquire this effect, you have to decide where to hang the pictures. To make your house feel
homier, follow these steps to hang your pictures perfectly. First, have a friend hold the
picture on the wall while you stand back to get a good view. Once it looks nice, have your
friend hold it in place. Next, using a pencil, make a light pencil mark on the wall along the
top of the frame in the center. With a ruler, measure the distance from the top of the frame
to the bracket on the back of the painting. Measure the same distance down from your
mark on the wall, and make a second small mark on the wall. Pound a nail into the wall
where you made the second mark. Be sure to leave the nail sticking out about one‐fourth of
an inch. Now you are ready to hang your picture on the wall!

85
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

86
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. ______________________________________________________________

87
COMPOSITION
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88
REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

89
ASSIGNMENT 8.2
Write a “How to” paragraph, telling how to cook a recipe.
INVENTION
Topic
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Step 7
Step 8
Step 9
Step 10

90
STRUCTURE
below.

I. ________________________________________________________________
A. _____________________________________________________________
B. _____________________________________________________________
C. _____________________________________________________________
D. _____________________________________________________________
E. _____________________________________________________________
F. _____________________________________________________________
G. _____________________________________________________________
H. _____________________________________________________________
I. ______________________________________________________________
J. ______________________________________________________________

91
COMPOSITION
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92
REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words

93
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
Topic
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Step 7
Step 8
Step 9
Step 10

94
STRUCTURE
below.

I. ________________________________________________________________
A. _____________________________________________________________
B. _____________________________________________________________
C. _____________________________________________________________
D. _____________________________________________________________
E. _____________________________________________________________
F. _____________________________________________________________
G. _____________________________________________________________
H. _____________________________________________________________
I. ______________________________________________________________
J. ______________________________________________________________

95
COMPOSITION
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96
REVIEW
Paragraph Checklist
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Transition Words
97

98

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1st Difference Meow Bark

2nd Difference Cats can retract their Dogs cannot retract claws.

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