Focus on Writing: Chapter 2

TESTing Your Paragraphs

Topic Sentence A paragraph is unified when its topic sentence states an idea that the entire paragraph’s sentences support.

A paragraph is not unified when its sentences wander from the main idea stated in the topic sentence

TESTing a paragraph will tell you if it has all the elements of an effective paragraph

Evidence The typical academic reader is skeptical. As the writer, it is your job to prove your point to the reader.

Use specific supporting evidence Make a point and then give specific examples to prove the point

TESTing a paragraph will tell you if it has all the elements of an effective paragraph

Summary Statement A sentence that restates your main idea in different words

Reminding readers what your paragraph is about helps to unify the paragraph.

TESTing a paragraph will tell you if it has all the elements of an effective paragraph

Transitions Create coherence by indicating how ideas are connected in a paragraph

Connects ideas in a clear, logical order See page 41 for a brief list of transitional words and phrases

TESTing a paragraph will tell you if it has all the elements of an effective paragraph

TESTing Your Paragraphs• Topic sentence• Evidence• Summary statement• Transitions

TESTing a paragraph will tell you if it has all the elements of an effective paragraph