TRAINING COURSE

2ND SEMESTER
APRIL 13
STRUCTURING A PARAGRAPH

 A paragraph develops ONE main idea through a series of related sentences. This
main idea is usually introduced in the first sentence of the paragraph, called the
topic sentence. The idea is then developed further through the sentences that
follow.
 A paragraph is usually around 250 words and consists of five or six sentences,
although this can vary depending on the purpose of the paragraph, and the
length of the piece you are writing. 
 Paragraphs play an important role in writing because they provide a framework
for organising your ideas in a logical order. Using a clear structure for your
paragraphs helps guide the reader through your written work.
 PARAGRAPH STRUCTURE

 TOPIC SENTENCE – the beginning

• Needs to state ONE idea clearly

• Useful Tip: Always put the most important
information first!

 SUPPORTING SENTENCE – the middle
• Elaborates and explains the idea
introduced in the topic sentence
• Provides evidence and examples
• Explains the evidence or example included
- why is it relevant?
Antarctica is a dangerous and lonely
place. It is the coldest and driest
continent on the planet. It is far away
from hospitals and food supplies.
Unpredictable weather can cause
sudden blizzards which can trap people
beneath several feet of snow in a
matter of hours.
Main idea or topic sentence
Supporting sentences
 CONCLUDING SENTENCE – the end
Makes links: back to the main idea of the
paragraph; back to research question or topic of
the assignment; to the next paragraph
 TOPIC Sometimes failure can make people more determined.
SENTENCE
In sport, for example, if top athletes lose a race or fail
SUPPORTING
to score a goal, this may be just the motivation they
SENTENCE
need to inspire them. Perhaps they appreciate their
CONCLUDING success more if it hasn’t come easily.
SENTENCE