Notes on writing paragraphs: Topic, supporting, concluding and transition sentences.

Writing Paragraphs

1.  Topic Sentence:

 Main idea of paragraph.

                Topic + controlling idea (what you have to say about the topic)

                For example,  Young people (topic) spend too much time on the internet. (what you have to say about the topic)

2.  Supporting Sentences:

                Details, examples, reasons to support the topic sentence.  (usually at least 3)

3.  Conclusion Sentence:

                Repeat the idea of the topic sentence in a different way.

                For example,  Young people waste their time on the internet  and may not have time for other activities.

4.  Transition Sentence: 

                They say or give a clue about the idea of the next paragraph.  These can be part of a concluding sentence.

                For example,  Although young people waste their time on the internet, they can be gaining knowledge.  (my next paragraph will be about getting good information on the internet)

                Another example,  Not only do young people waste their time on the internet, but they also waste money on new technology. (my next paragraph will be about how young people spend money on technology)