Overview
This lecture explains how to structure a clear and effective paragraph using the PEEL method, emphasizing each component's role in organizing ideas logically.
Importance of Paragraph Structure
- A paragraph's structure acts like a skeleton, keeping ideas organized and easy to understand.
- Without structure, paragraphs can become confusing and difficult to follow.
The PEEL Method for Paragraphs
- PEEL stands for Point, Explain, Evidence, and Link—four essential parts of a well-structured paragraph.
- The method ensures clarity and logical flow for the reader.
Components of a PEEL Paragraph
- Point: State the main point or argument of the paragraph clearly.
- Example: "We must stop turtles from eating plastic bags."
- Explain: Provide more detail or reasoning behind the main point.
- Example: "Turtles mistake plastic bags for jellyfish and may die from eating them."
- Evidence: Support your explanation with facts, statistics, or expert opinions.
- Example: "A study by the World Wildlife Foundation found that 52% of turtles had eaten plastic."
- Link: Connect everything back to the main point, summarizing or concluding the paragraph.
- Example: "Therefore, if we want a future with plastic bags, we cannot let turtles eat them all."
Flexibility in Structure
- The order of explanation and evidence can vary as long as all elements are included.
- You can include multiple pieces of evidence or explanations as needed.
- Starting with a point and ending with a link is most important for coherence.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Paragraph Structure — the organized arrangement of ideas in a paragraph.
- PEEL — an acronym for Point, Explain, Evidence, and Link used to structure paragraphs.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice writing a PEEL paragraph on a new topic using the method described.
- Remember to start with a clear point, include explanations and evidence, and finish with a strong link.