Writing a Paragraph and a Thesis

Great Paragraph Writing!

Mrs. Jenzer

Poll

Before we begin, how are you doing today?

• I'm insanely awesome.

• I'm awake. Calling it a win.

• I'm hanging in there.

• I'm very well, thanks for asking!

• I can't wait to get back home to my cat.

Poll

Since we found out that most of us eat fruit, which is the BEST fruit?

• Definitely other

Poll

Here we go, how do you currently feel about your writing skills?

• I'm a decent writer when I try my best.

• I'm okay at writing, but I'm mostly guessing.

• I've never liked writing, and I don't do it often.

• I'm a pretty great writer!

​Great News!

No matter what your writing skills are currently, we're going to teach you how to write a solid opinion paragraph. Once you've got this skill down, you'll be able to transfer that skill to other forms of writing with a little bit of work.

​Common "criteria" of a paragraph

• ​This list might include some common criteria that you've been taught for paragraph writing.

• ​However, there are actually just SIX checklist items to stick to AND then focus on mastering these ones.

​So what makes a good paragraph?

• ​Using keywords or information from the question to start your answer

• ​Using well-developed supporting details that make sense and connect to the question/topic

• ​Using transition words that help the writing to flow

• ​Organizing the supporting details in a way that makes sense

• ​Including an opening and closing sentence that relates to your topic

• ​Using appropriate language that suits your purpose (no slang, no exaggeration, nothing inappropriate, etc.)

​

Poll

How do you feel about writing an opinion paragraph with this information in mind?

• I've totally got this!

• Not too confident.

• Pretty good!

• I need more practice.