HFCC Learning Lab
Paragraph, 5.1
Writing Paragraphs for Exposition
Introduction:
The paragraph, which starts on a new line and is indented, serves as a convenient way
to break-up one’s writing for easy reading. A paragraph, however, is more than a
mechanical device: it is a composition in miniature. A well-written paragraph not only
represents a definite subdivision of the whole paper, but has a certain self-sufficient
unity.
While there are many types of paragraphs serving different purposes, one might think of
a paragraph as a group of sentences clustering around a central idea. One may also
remember that expository writing calls for skill in writing three types of paragraphs:
introductory, supporting, and closing.
Introductory Paragraphs:
The introductory paragraph has a special function, namely to announce the thesis
statement. The thesis statement, which may appear at the beginning or at the
conclusion of the introductory paragraph, tells the reader what the composition is going
to be about and limits the subject. The introductory paragraph, furthermore, attempts
to attract a reader’s attention. It may accomplish this by explaining why the subject to
be discussed is important or interesting, by asking a question to pique the reader’s
curiosity, or by including a startling fact.
Support Paragraphs:
Having made the thesis statement in the introductory paragraph, one should write
support paragraphs which develop the subject. A support paragraph consists of a topic
sentence (that is, an explanation, an opinion, an interpretation, or a generalization)
supported by more specific statements, giving details, facts, illustrations, definitions,
reasons, contrasts or comparisons. A good support paragraph has a topic sentence
accompanied by supporting sentences that have a direct, obvious relationship to it.
Closing Paragraphs:
A closing paragraph may be a full paragraph or only one sentence, but it must convey a
sense of completion, indicating that the thesis ahs been fully developed, that no loose
ends remain the closing paragraph might accomplish its purpose by repeating the thesis
statement in different words, or by summarizing the main points covered in the support
paragraphs. Sometimes an ending may be made by asking a challenging question or by
making a suggestion.
7/12/2010