2.2.1

Paragraphs

Test yourself

Paragraphs

You need to be able to write in paragraphs.

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Structure of paragraphs

  • Generally, each paragraph in a piece of writing contains one key point.
  • Writers often start paragraphs with hooks, which encourage readers to think about the main point of the paragraph.
  • The topic sentence is where a writer introduces their main point.
    • Writers will then expand on these sentences with evidence and examples.
  • Writers may end by leading into the following paragraph.
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Paragraph length

  • The length of a paragraph can be significant.
  • For example:
    • A writer may use a long paragraph to build up a detailed description of a setting.
    • A writer may use a one-sentence paragraph to emphasise a rhetorical question or emphasise a point.
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When to begin a new paragraph

  • You need to start a new paragraph when:
    • Location changes.
    • Time changes.
    • The action changes.
    • You introduce a new idea or character.
    • Someone starts speaking. When you are using dialogue, you need to start a new paragraph every time you change speaker.

Jump to other topics

1Spelling

2Punctuation

3Grammar

3.1Word Classes

3.2Conjunctions

3.3Writing Coherently

3.4Verbs

3.5Modal Verbs

3.6Phrasal Verbs

3.7Subjunctive Verbs

3.8Sentences

3.9Tenses

3.10Adverbials

3.11Language Techniques

4Decoding Words

5Reading & Writing

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