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What is paragraph structure, and why does it matter?

To discuss the structure of a paragraph, we will discuss three major components: the topic sentence, the supporting sentences, internal transitions, and the conclusion. The construction of a paragraph is like the construction of anything else. It takes vision, a plan, and the right parts to come up with a finished product. One could compare it to creating a sandwich. The following short video expands on this concept to get you started in this module.

 

 

Please watch this video titled the "Hamburger Paragraph"

by Cindy Beck.

 

To construct anything, we need an idea and a plan. In a paragraph, that plan is expressed in the topic sentence. It is the main idea or the main point of the paragraph. (In descriptive or narrative writing, the main idea is often called "the dominant impression.")

 

It is impossible to accomplish any vision without a plan or a supportive structure.   In the same way, any main idea or topic sentence of a paragraph will fall flat without enough support. Some topic sentences, like some sandwiches, need more support than others.   Be sure to look at the assertions and implications of your topic sentence to see if you have fully explained and supported them.   The topic sentence will guide the development of the paragraph.

 

In the construction of a paragraph, just like in the construction of a sandwich, it is not enough to simply have a list of ingredients. Transitions (or condiments) link our supportive sentences (the fillings) to each other and back to the topic sentence (the bun).   In our "Ways We Use Paragraph Structure" section, we will discuss specific examples of internal transitions.

Let's recall what we learned in the first module.   Every piece of writing, like any other transaction or relationship, has a purpose.  Yet, this purpose is not fully realized without a strong structure.   A good structure allows the purpose of a piece of writing to be accomplished.  

 

 

The structure of a paragraph almost always consists of three basic units: the topic sentence, the supporting sentences, internal transitions, and the concluding/transition sentence.  

 

Writing is a way of developing an idea.   Just like the hamburger, a good paragraph consists of specific parts —a recipe, or the topic; the inside of the sandwich, or strong support/explanation; condiments, or internal transitions, that link the supportive ideas to each other and to the topic; and a bottom bun, or a concluding/transition sentence.

 

 

Think about the hamburger.   Cooks know they want to build a beautiful and tasty burger. Their purpose is clear to them, but they need a systematic approach (plan) and the right ingredients to achieve their goal.

 

 

Click here to begin the lesson on Paragraph Structure.

 


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