Paragraph writing Read and Respond

A paragraph is a group of sentences that are all about one topic. It is easy to spot a paragraph because the first line is usually indented. That means it is set farther from the left margin than the rest of the text. Paragraphs can give information, or facts, about the topic. They can also express an opinion, or the writer’s beliefs about that topic.

To find the beginning of a paragraph, look for ________.

• a fact

• an opinion

• an indented line

• a belief about the topic

Most paragraphs have a topic sentence, detail sentences, and a closing sentence. The topic sentence is the first sentence of the paragraph and introduces the main idea. It tells the reader what the paragraph will be about. A topic sentence should be interesting, so the reader wants to keep going and find out more. Let’s say you are writing a paragraph about pet dogs. You might start off with a topic sentence like: “Dogs are the best kind of pet.”

Read the following passage.

Many cultures have their own versions of the same or similar fairy tales. For example, there are Cinderella stories from all over the world! They aren’t exactly the same, though. For instance, the fairy tale “How the Raja’s Son Won the Princess Labam” is from India. “Raja” is a title for king in India. In a Scottish version, the main character is named Rushen Coatie. Even though the details and words might be different, the basic story is similar.

What is the main idea of the passage?

• In Scotland, Cinderella is called Rushen Coatie.

• Cultures all around the world tell similar fairy tales.

• “Raja” is a title for king in India.

• There is only one version of the Cinderella story that people tell.

Once you have the topic sentence, it’s time to write the body of the paragraph. The body includes sentences with supporting details. These details give evidence to support the main idea that was stated in the topic sentence. If your topic sentence is “Dogs are the best kind of pet,” think of reasons why that is true. You might include details like “They wag their tails when they see you,” or “They are cute and cuddly.” Detail sentences can be organized with transition words, like “first,” “next,” “then,” and “also.”

Bears have traits that make them good hunters. Which of these details supports this main idea?

• Bears have big paws that help them catch fish

• Bear cubs are born during hibernation in the winter.

• Polar bear fur is mostly clear, but it looks white.

• Bears love to eat honey and have to avoid bee stings.

After filling out a paragraph with supporting details, you must finish with a closing sentence. The closing sentence is the last sentence of the paragraph. It can restate the main idea in different words. It can also be a thought that summarizes all the ideas in the paragraph. A closing sentence often begins with a transition word or phrase, like “in conclusion,” “to sum up,” or “all in all.”

Read the following passage.

Dogs are the best kind of pet. First, they are cute and cuddly. They always wag their tails when they see you. Plus, they help you get exercise when you take them on walks.

Which of these would be the best closing sentence for this paragraph?

• Finally, they love belly rubs.

• I love to give my dog peanut butter as a treat.

• In conclusion, I like cats almost as much as dogs.

• For these reasons, dogs make excellent pets.