Lecture Notes: Writing a Strong Paragraph

Basic Paragraph Structure

Components of a Paragraph:
- Topic Sentence: Main idea of the paragraph.
- Supporting Sentences: Develop the main idea with examples, details, explanations.
- Concluding Sentence: Provides closure, touches upon the main idea, and signals the end of the topic.

Entire Paragraph Stems from the Topic Sentence:
- Must clearly convey the main idea.
- Indicates the type of paragraph (descriptive, narrative, opinion-based, comparison).

Example: "Taking too many university courses at once can have potentially serious consequences."
- Clear Topic: Taking too many university courses at once.
- Main Idea: Potentially serious consequences.
- Effectiveness: Indicates the paragraph will discuss the effects of taking too many courses.

Example Sentences Reviewed:
1. "Four to five teenagers in Canada have cell phones."
  - Too Specific: It's a fact, no idea to develop.
2. "Driving is very stressful."
  - Too Broad: Needs specificity (e.g., driving where, when, for whom).
3. "How I learned to be more patient."
  - Incomplete: Needs a clear subject, verb, and completed idea.
4. "In this paragraph, I would like to discuss the importance of food in Italian culture."
  - Announces Topic: Avoid announcing; state the main idea instead.

Revised Examples:
1. "Cell phones should be banned from classrooms for several reasons."
  - Opinion Stated: Clear position taken.
2. "Driving on the highway in heavy traffic is stressful for many motorists."
  - Specificity Improved: More precise.
3. "Having a child taught me the importance of being patient."
  - Complete Thought: Clear subject and verb.
4. "Food is an essential part of Italian culture."
  - Avoided Announcement: Direct statement of the main idea.

Follow the link at the end of the video to try an exercise related to this lesson.