1. Paragraph Structure

2. What is a paragraph? A group of related sentences that develops the main idea. It has 3 parts A)Topic Sentence- tells what the paragraph is going to discuss B)Supporting Sentences- gives details about the topic C)Concluding sentences- summarizes the main points or restates the topic sentence in different words.

4. Topic Sentence MOST important sentence in a paragraph!!!! Has two parts: A)Topic B)Controlling idea- tells what the paragraph will say about the topic. All sentences should relate to and develop the controlling idea. EX: Smoking cigarettes can be an expensive habit.

5. Partner work Read topics and create a controlling idea. 1.Stress 2.Vacation 3.Christmas 4.Spring 5.Cats

6. Topic Sentence Normally the topic sentence is the first sentence. Not too general, Not too specific. Ex: Marriage is an event in a person’s life. The average age for people in the United States to marry in the year 2000 was 25 for women and 27 for men. The average age for people in the United States to marry has changed in the past 100 years.

7. Choose the best topic sentence __________. I usually to skiing every weekend in the winter even though it is expensive. I love the feeling of flying down a mountain. The views are beautiful from the top of the mountain and along the trails. Even the danger of falling and getting hurt can’t keep me away from the slopes on a winter day. A)Skiing is expensive. B)Skiing is my favorite sport. C)Skiing is dangerous.

8. _______. North Americans send cards for many occasions. They send cards to family and friends on birthdays and holidays. They also send thank-you cards, get well cards, and graduation cards. It is very common to buy cards in stores and send them through the mail, but turning on the computer and sending cards over the internet is also popular. A)Sending cards is very popular in North America. B) Birthday cards are the most popular kind of card. C) It is important to send thank-you cards.

9. Supporting sentences Explains the topic by giving more information about it. Unity- All sentences relate to the topic and controlling idea. Coherence- A paragraph that contains sentences that are logically arranged and that flow smoothly. Transition expressions

10. Owning a small car has several advantages. 1.A small car is easier to park. 2. 3. 4.

11. A good friend has many important qualities. 1.He/she can keep secrets. 2. 3. 4.

12. Concluding sentences Signals the end of the paragraph and reminds the reader of the main idea. Conclusion signals Repeat the topic sentence in different words. Summarize the main points of the paragraph Never end a paragraph with a new idea. Not all paragraphs need a concluding sentence.

13. Credit cards have a lot of advantages. First of all, credit cards are convenient because you don’t have to carry a lot of cash. You can buy the products and services you need even if you do not have cash in your pocket. In addition, credit cards are very helpful in emergencies. Finally, you can become a better money manager as you learn to use credit cards responsibly.

14. Credit cards are the best means of payment.

15. Animals living in modern zoos enjoy several advantages over animals in the wild. The first advantage is that zoo animals are separated from their natural predators. They are protected, so they live without risk of being attacked. Another advantage is that someone feeds them regularly, so they don’t have to hunt for food. A third advantage of living in zoos is that veterinarians give animals regular checkups, and sick animals get prompt medical attention.

16. In conclusion, because all their needs are taken care of, most zoo animals are healthy and safe.