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/

To print out or download and save your own copy please click Academic essay writing template and constructing paragraphs