Constructing paragraphs

Unity

A paragraph should discuss only one idea.
i.e. do not discuss advantages and disadvantages of a theory – split these parts of the argument into two separate paragraphs.

• The opening sentence of paragraph should outline the main idea (topic sentence).
• Every supporting sentence should directly explain, refer back to, or build on the main idea.
• Use the final sentence to refer back to the topic sentence and/or lead into the following paragraph.

Academic Skills Centre (n.d.). Paragraphs, flow and connectivity. Retrieved from https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/301/study-skills/writing/academic-writing/paragraph-flow-connectivity

Colour-coded paragraphs

• Follow the structural paragraph format detailed below to construct your paragraph.
• Use highlighter pens of different colours, highlight each line of your paragraph to indicate Topic sentence, Explanation/definition, Evidence and Comment, Concluding sentence.
• Have you constructed a ‘unity’ paragraph?

Academic Skills Centre (n.d.). Paragraphs, flow and connectivity. Retrieved from https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/301/study-skills/writing/academic-writing/paragraph-flow-connectivity

Write with purpose: what do you want your paragraph to do?

Adapted from http://www.une.edu.au/current-students/resources/academic-skills/fact-sheets/media/nested-factsheets/paragraph-types by University of Newcastle at https://libguides.newcastle.edu.au/writing-paragraphs/types

See also ‘Writing the body paragraphs’ at https://www.adelaide.edu.au/english-for-uni/essay-writing/

For further information and printed copies of the above, please visit the Study Skills Station in the HE Library. To print out or download and save your own copy please click Academic essay writing template and constructing paragraphs