Goals: You will be able to...
- Briefly review paragraph structure and the essential components of a paragraph
- Think critically and analyze the development of sample paragraphs
- Revise and improve a sample paragraph
Class Discussion
Let’s
review the parts of the introduction and conclusion in order to help
you see the differences between them and the body paragraphs. Because
they have different purposes and content in the essay, the structure is
very different. Take a look at the PARAGRAPH STRUCTURE HANDOUT and be
sure to take notes in the given areas. What are the three parts of a
body paragraph? What are some characteristics of a good body paragraph?
Small Groups: Analyze the Paragraphs
Work
in groups of 2-3 to work on A), B) and C) of the handout. Think
critically and find the biggest problems in the structure and
development of each of the paragraphs.
Class Discussion: Debriefing
When finished, we'll discuss
as a class the answers of A), B) and C) from the handout. How are these
problems related to the “4 Characteristics of Good Paragraph
Structure.” Think critically about your own Diagnostic Essay and make
sure that you are familiar with the terms introduced: Unity, Coherence,
Development of Ideas, Topic Sentence and Closing Sentence, so that you
know how to revise your essay accordingly.
Small Groups: Revise the Paragraph
You
have the remainder of class time to revise the paragraph at the end of
the handout. Look for the Four Characteristics of Good Paragraph
Structure and make sure that any revisions that you make fit under that
category.
