Paragraphs
English Language: KS3, topic 2.2.1
Paragraphs
You need to be able to write in paragraphs.
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.
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.
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.
Test yourself on Paragraphs
Which of these are generally true of how writers use paragraphs?
A writer wants to give a piece of writing a stop-start feel. Which of these are they more likely to use?
Why might a writer use a one-sentence paragraph in a piece of writing?