Paragraph vs Essay

What is a paragraph? A group of related sentences that develops one main idea Has three major structural parts: Topic sentence Supporting sentences Concluding sentence

Topic sentence States the topic of the paragraph E.g. Time management Identifies the controlling idea E.g. There are many benefits of time management Expresses the writer’s attitude about the topic

…….Topic sentence Gives only the main idea E.g. World population is increasing at an alarming rate – yes Cannot contain a fact E.g. The world’s population is now more than 6.8 billion and continues to grow by 83 million people per year - no Not too general, not too specific E.g. The internet is a useful tool – no The internet has become a most sought after tool of communication in the world today - yes

Identify the topic and the controlling idea. Competition between groups has many benefits. Communication can build or destroy a business. Management, which can be best described as a skill, has three basic elements.

Identify the topic sentence A computer can be used to do many different things. An individual may use a computer to accumulate tax deductions or to play a space invader game; an accountant may use a computer to maintain financial records. A government agency might use it to prepare employee payroll cheques.

Supporting ideas Give information that supports and explains the topic E.g. There are many benefits of time management. By managing your time, you will be able to achieve more at work and at home. It will also help you to live a more balanced life, reduce the level of stress, have more focus to concentrate on your efforts and increase your self-esteem.

Unity and coherence Discuss only one main idea in a paragraph Ensure every supporting sentence directly explains or proves the main idea Use ‘transition signals’ to show the relationship of one idea to the next

Transition signals The internet is changing the way we live. For example, people use the internet to communicate through email at super speeds. In addition, working at home is now an option in many countries. The internet, however, has its negative side. For instance, children use chat rooms to talk to strangers. Consequently, undesirable relationships can build up, which can threaten their safety.

The essay Begins with an introductory paragraph Has a thesis statement in the introductory paragraph, towards the end of the paragraph Contains body/developmental paragraphs Ends with a concluding paragraph

Thesis statement Expresses an attitude, idea or opinion about the topic E.g. “Investing in the stock market can bring many benefits” Does not state a fact E.g. “The English language was introduced into Sri Lanka by the British in the nineteenth century” A single unified sentence E.g. “While the most basic need is physiological, workers aspire to achieve self-actualization as their most valued need.”