Essay Format: Body Paragraphs

Body Paragraph Format: TS: Topic Sentence (What is my paragraph about?) CD: Concrete Detail CM: Commentary CS: Concluding Sentence

Concrete Details: WHY should concrete details be written? - to support your thesis - to support your topic sentences - to show why you feel a certain way How many do I need? -At least two per body paragraph to support your view

Concrete Details What ARE “concrete details”? - Specific details that form the backbone or skeleton of your body paragraphs - Synonyms for concrete details include: evidence, facts, examples, quotations, specifics, descriptions, illustrations, support, proof - Concrete details are the details from the story–they can be quotes or facts from the text, examples, evidence, *Should be able to find them on a page in text

Commentary Commentary –(CM) - Ideas from your head—the “so what?” - Words with feelings behind them that you can describe to someone else: your ideas, interpretations, insight, reasons, opinions, or feelings -Your chance to be the “commentator”

Sample body paragraph Without homework on the weekends, students would be able to spend quality time alone. For example, someone could use the time to read what she likes to read. This could broaden her knowledge of a certain subject or just provide a relaxing activity. Reading a lot would also help the student build her vocabulary. In addition, she could spend time alone pursuing a hobby. Personal hobbies enrich life and provide opportunities to do for others, such as creating gifts for friends and family. Hobbies also make individuals more well-rounded. As a result of having more time alone, a student could feel more positive about school and feel more prepared for the next week of school responsibilities.

Topic sentence: Football is the most dangerous sport. Concrete Details Commentary

Topic Sentence: Saki’s short story, “The Interlopers,” has several examples of situational irony. Concrete Details Commentary