1. Power Writing
The “Powergraph”

2. Power Writing is a writing system that assigns a number to each different type of sentence in a paragraph.
The number 1 is assigned to the main idea sentence of a paragraph.
The number 2 is assigned to the major detail sentences in a paragraph.
The number 3 is assigned to the supporting detail or example sentences.
The number 4 is assigned to conclusion sentences.
A zero (0) sentence is a “cushion” sentence to be used at the beginning of paragraphs or essays as an attention-getting sentence and at the end of essays as a culminating, broad statement about the importance of what was discussed in the bulk of the essay. (More on cushions later.)

3. These numbers can be combined in countless ways to form simple paragraphs, complex paragraphs with textual evidence, or entire essays.
ALL good writing is power writing because the writer makes a statement and supports it with major details and supporting details.  

4. POWER WRITING!!!! Example 1-2-3-2-3-4 powergraph:
(1) There are two places I would love to visit if I could go anywhere in the world. (2) First, I would go to sunny Puerto Rico. (3) I love the beach, and I know that Puerto Rico has beautiful, sandy beaches. (2) Second, I would go to Ireland. (3) My ancestors came from Ireland and I want to go there to see where I came from. (4) To conclude, there are two places in the world I would really like to see.

5. Power Writing Formulas and Examples
Basic Power Writing Paragraph: ( )
(1) There are many methods to use to solve word problems. (2) One method is the guess and check method. (2) Another method is to make a chart or table. (2) A third method is to make an equation. (4) In summary, these are some of the easier methods to use to solve word problems.
Detailed Power Writing Paragraph: ( )
(1) There are many methods to use to solve word problems. (2) One method is the guess and check method. (3) In other words, this method involves trial and error. (2) Another method is to make a chart or table. (3) You must organize your ideas for this one. (2) A third method is to make an equation. (3) In an equation, you will have to use a variable for your unknown. (4) In summary, these are some of the easier methods to use to solve word problems.

6. Power Writing Formulas and Examples
Extended Power Writing Paragraph: ( )
(1) There are many methods to use to solve word problems. (2)One method is the guess and check method. (3) In other words, this method involves trial and error. (3) If one solution doesn’t work, then you try another. (2) Another method is to make a chart or table. (3) You must organize your ideas for this one. (3) Because of this, you can use the organized information to help find your solution. (2) A third method is to make an equation. (3) In such cases, you will have to use a variable for your unknown. (3) Then you use the rest of the information in the equation. (4) In summary, these are some of the easier methods to use to solve word problems.

7. Power Writing—Transition Words
Successful writers use transition words in their paragraphs and their essays to increase unity.
Words and phrases that begin a #2 sentence or major detail:
First
Second
Third
Even more
Moreover
More than that
Equally
Importantly
Above All
Aside From
Furthermore
Also
Likewise
Next
Then
To begin
With that said
Another
Again
In addition
Lastly
Finally
Some believe
Others say
Still others believe

8. Power Writing—Transition Words
Words and phrases that begin a #3 sentence, or supporting detail:
For example
That is to say
Namely
Like As
Just as
Specifically
To be specific
In such cases
This is made clear by
Because of this
In the same manner
For instance
In other words
This can be explained by
To explain
To clarify
To be more specific

9. Power Writing—Transition Words
Words and phrases that begin a #4 sentence, or conclusion:
In conclusion
To sum up
In closing
In summary
Finally

10. The “0” Sentence
The 0 sentence is reserved for introductions and conclusions of essays.
There are four main ways to grab a reader’s attention at the beginning of an essay or paragraph:
1. Use a quote: Henry David Thoreau said “live the life you’ve imagined,” which relates to my goals for my own life.
2. Say something crazy: Everyone knows reading is a waste of time, right? No way!
3. Make a list: A better job, higher wages, more satisfaction: these are just some of the things education can bring.
4. Ask a question (or use the second person): Do you know your goals for your life? – This is the ONLY place it is OK to use 2nd person!!!

11. Two other uses for the “0” Sentence
Another use of the 0 sentence at the beginning of an essay is to set up the context of an issue or text that is being studied in class.
At the end of an essay, a 0 sentence serves as a broad statement about the importance of the issue at hand and its implications in the wider world.