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The Fun Spanish Level 1
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Sheldon’s Primary Language Lessons
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TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Background .............................................................................................................. 5
Instructions .............................................................................................................. 6
Writing a Sentence.................................................................................................... 7
Answering a Question ............................................................................................ 8
Expanding Your Sentences .................................................................................. 10
Writing a Paragraph ................................................................................................ 17
Transition Words Table ........................................................................................ 18
Writing a Descriptive Paragraph .............................................................................. 23
Descriptive Paragraph Example—Invention .......................................................... 23
Descriptive Paragraph Example—Structure ......................................................... 24
Descriptive Paragraph Example—Composition ..................................................... 24
Writing a Biographical Paragraph ........................................................................... 35
Biographical Paragraph Example—Invention........................................................ 35
Biographical Paragraph Example—Structure ....................................................... 37
Biographical Paragraph Example—Composition ................................................... 38
Writing a Cause and Effect Paragraph ..................................................................... 48
Cause and Effect Paragraph Example—Invention ................................................. 48
Cause and Effect Paragraph Example—Structure ................................................ 48
Cause and Effect Paragraph Example—Composition ............................................ 49
Writing a Comparison Paragraph ............................................................................ 60
Comparison Paragraph Example—Invention ........................................................ 60
Comparison Paragraph Example—Structure ........................................................ 60
Comparison Paragraph Example—Composition ................................................... 61
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Writing a Contrast Paragraph ................................................................................. 72
Contrast Paragraph Example—Invention ............................................................. 72
Contrast Paragraph Example—Structure ............................................................. 72
Contrast Paragraph Example—Composition ......................................................... 73
Writing a “How to” Paragraph.................................................................................. 84
“How To” Paragraph Example—Invention ............................................................. 84
“How To” Paragraph Example—Structure............................................................. 85
“How To” Paragraph Example—Composition ........................................................ 86
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BACKGROUND
How to Write a Paragraph teaches students the fundamentals of paragraph writing.
Students learn the basic structure of a paragraph—topic sentence, supporting
details, and clincher or concluding sentence.
The lessons are structured so that students learn about paragraphs by writing
paragraphs of various types. As they complete the exercises, students will learn how
to brainstorm their topic, create an outline, write their paragraph, and edit their
writing.
Paragraph Structures Included
This text covers six different types of paragraphs:
•
The Descriptive Paragraph
•
The Biographical Paragraph
•
The Cause and Effect Paragraph
•
The Comparison Paragraph
•
The Contrast Paragraph
•
The “How to” Paragraph
Unlike other paragraph writing curricula, How to Write a Paragraph teaches students
to write basic paragraphs based on information from their own experiences or from
subjects they’re studying in school.
This curriculum is suitable for all students that need to learn or review the
fundamentals of paragraph writing.
Note: Although there are other types of paragraphs, these paragraphs were selected
because they give students the opportunity to develop and practice the basic writing
skills that are needed for upper level writing.
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INSTRUCTIONS
There are several ways to use How to Write a Paragraph. One is to work through the
text from the beginning to the end, completing the exercises as written.
Another option is to modify the exercises to accommodate your student’s course
work, basically using this text to help your student write across the curriculum.
As your student completes the exercises, please remember that the invention and
outline sections are tools to help your student develop and organize his thoughts for
the composition exercises. So if you have a student that can write a paragraph
without first creating an outline, encourage the student to complete the invention
and structure exercises anyway. Mastering these skills will help prepare your student
for essay writing in the future.
Students have to learn to identify problem areas in their thoughts and course correct
as necessary.
Each paragraph writing section has four areas of focus—invention, structure,
composition, and review.
•
Invention
The invention area helps students brainstorm ideas for their paragraph.
•
Structure
The structure area teaches students to place their ideas in outline form. (Even
though the invention tables are organized in such a way that students can write their
paragraphs without the outline, it is important that students create their outlines
first. Creating the outlines helps to teach students how outlines are written. And as
their writing becomes more complicated, the outlines will become more useful.)
•
Composition
Based on their outline, students write their composition.
•
Review
The final area is the review section. Students should be encouraged to review and
edit their own writing as much as possible.
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WRITING A SENTENCE
A sentence is a group of words that are put together to convey meaning. Sentences
give information and answer questions. In order to be a sentence and not a phrase, it
must contain both a subject and a verb.
Example
The
The
The
The
The
dog barked.
cat meowed.
cow mooed.
waves crashed
sun set.
A subject is the topic spoken of, and the verb states something about the subject. In
all of the sentences above, the subjects are underlined once and the verbs twice.
ASSIGNMENT 1.1
For the subjects below, add a verb:
1. The man __________________________________________.
2. The woman ________________________________________.
3. My pet _____________________________________________.
4. Little boys _________________________________________.
5. Little girls _________________________________________.
For the verbs below, add a subject:
1. _____________________________ scurried with fear.
2. _____________________________ laughed loudly as he left the room.
3. _____________________________ soared above the clouds.
3. _____________________________ repeatedly tapped his finger on the
table.
5. _____________________________ grabbed the mic and loudly sang offkey.
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ANSWERING A QUESTION
One way to create a sentence is by asking…then answering…a question.
Example: Why are you having a party?
Correct: We are having a party because today is Jane’s birthday.
Incorrect: Because it’s Jane’s birthday.
If you were to answer the question with—because it is Jane’s birthday—your answer
would not be a sentence.
ASSIGNMENT 1.2
Use complete sentences to provide answers for the questions below. Remember you
must have a subject and a verb.
1. How did you get to school today?
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
2. When will we go on the field trip?
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
3. Who is coming to the pizza party?
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
4. What kind of dog do you have?
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
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5. Where did Nick go during summer vacation?
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
6. Why did Marilyn buy a new camper?
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
7. What are you wearing to school tomorrow?
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
8. Where is your cat hiding?
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
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EXPANDING YOUR SENTENCES
To expand a sentence, you add more information. One way is to include information
that tells Who, What (did what or what happened), When, Where, and Why.
Look at the example below:
Who:
The puppy
What:
When:
Where:
Why:
knocked on the door
yesterday
of my van
because he wanted me to stay home.
Once you know who, what, when, where, and why, you can make an amazing
sentence! To create the sentence, put the answers together until the sentence is
understandable. Remember, there is always more than one way to write a sentence.
Example:
Yesterday the puppy knocked on the door of my van because he
wanted me to stay home.
ASSIGNMENT 1.3
For the subjects below, add what (did what or what happened), when, where, why,
and how.
1. Who ______Stacie_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
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2. Who ______The cake______________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
4. Who ______School work____________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
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3. Who ____My best friend_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
5. Who ______Books_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
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6. Who ____Clowns__________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
7. Who ______Birds_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
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8. Who ____A school bus full of children__________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
9. Who ______Bob_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
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10. Who ____The wind_________________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
11. Who ______My pet _______________________________________
What ___________________________________________________
When ___________________________________________________
Where __________________________________________________
Why ____________________________________________________
Using the answers above, create new sentences.
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
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WRITING A PARAGRAPH
When you write a group of sentences that develop a single idea, we call that a
paragraph.
When you write a paragraph, you typically follow three steps. First, you need to come
up with something to write about. We call this invention. Throughout this book, you
will use tables to come up with information to include in your paragraphs.
Second, you will organize your information into an outline. This is called structure
because the outline you create will determine the structure of your paragraph.
Typically, paragraph outlines have the following form.
I. Topic Sentence
A. Major detail
B. Major detail
C. Major detail
D. Concluding detail
Third, you compose your paragraph. When you write the paragraph, the first
sentence, although it doesn’t have to be, is typically the topic sentence. The topic
sentence tells the reader what your paragraph is about. Next are the major details
from your outline—A, B, C, and D. The major details tell your readers all the details
you want them to know about your topic. And the conclusion is the final detail of
your paragraph. Often, the conclusion tells your readers what you just told them or
explains the overall point of the paragraph.
Another item you want to add to your paragraph is transitions. Transitions make the
difference between a well written paragraph and a poorly written paragraph. On the
following page, a table of transition words is available for your use.
These are not all of the transition words you can use, but a few to help you write your
paragraphs.
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TRANSITION WORDS TABLE
Transition
Words or Phrase
Purpose:
Type of Writing
Descriptive
Surprisingly, as a result, and the varied sentence
openers, for example, for instance, specifically, to
illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case, like
Biographical
and, namely, for instance, in fact, specifically,
generally, sometimes, in particular, for example,
later, after, soon
Cause and Effect
as a result, in that case, thus, because of, hence,
then, therefore, accordingly, consequently,
initially, while, when, new, before, recent, next,
finally, soon
Comparison
also, likewise, similarly, so too, in the same way,
both, and, each
Contrast
How to
although, however, but, despite, even so, in
contrast, instead, nevertheless, notwithstanding,
on the other hand, regardless, still, though, yet
for example, for instance, specifically, to illustrate,
thus, in short, even, in this case, like, now, in no
time, once
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A common illustration for a paragraph is a hamburger. The buns represent the topic
sentence and the concluding sentence. And the main ideas are represented by the
cheese, meat, burger, tomatoes, and lettuce. And just like you can add more food to
your burger, like bacon, you can add more details your paragraph.
Topic Sentence
Major detail
Major Detail
Major Detail
Concluding Sentence
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ASSIGNMENT 2.1
Fill in the blanks with transition words or phrases of your own. If you need ideas to
determine transition words, use the table on page 18. Remember, the table does not
include all transition words and phrases, but only a few.
1. The two children went with their sleds to the top of a hill nearby.
______________ they found four boys, each of whom had a sled. The hill
was long and very smooth. _____________________, six children and six
sleds darted like arrows down the slope and across the white frozen field
to the brook. Each boy would shout for a clear track before he started, so
he would not hit anything as he went down. They kept up the sport and
_____________________ scattered to their homes.
2. An old Arabian story tells of a poor boy named Aladdin who gained
possession of a magic lamp. When this lamp was rubbed, a slave
appeared who provided anything that the owner demanded.
_____________________, Aladdin asked for rich food, splendid clothing,
precious stones, and a great palace. __________________________ all came
as he desired.
__________________________ Aladdin married the daughter of the ruler of
China, and thought his good fortune would never end.
__________________________ he carelessly allowed the precious lamp to
grow rusty, and _____________________ lost it. His wealth dwindled away,
his palace vanished into the air, and he became as poor as he had ever
been. __________________________ the careless man is likely to suffer.
Before you begin writing paragraphs, practice choosing appropriate
words. Try to choose words that are exciting and make the paragraphs
come alive!
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3. Down the street __________________________ the fire-department. The
people, __________________________ by the __________________________
gong, __________________________ in every direction. The
__________________________ engine __________________________ the corner,
leaving a __________________________of __________________________ smoke
to __________________________ its way. A __________________________
stream of __________________________ boys and men followed it.
4. We thought we had the horse this time. He was as good as caught in
that corner, with half a dozen boys around him. I
__________________________ up __________________________, holding the
bridle behind me; he let me get up to him, __________________________
him on the neck; he didn't __________________________;but the moment I
__________________________ to __________________________ the bridle over
his head, he __________________________, __________________________ up
his heels, __________________________ through the line of boys and went
__________________________ across the field, his head
__________________________, his mane and tail __________________________
in the wind.
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WRITING A DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH
A paragraph that describes is known as a descriptive paragraph. To write a
descriptive paragraph, you tell your readers how the item you are describing appeals
to the senses—how it looks, sounds, tastes, smells, or feels. These qualities make up
the major details. (Note: You do not have to include all of the senses in every
paragraph because sometimes you may only have information for one or two senses.)
If you have a topic that appeals only to one sense, such as a painting, then under
topics you should have sight listed five times. And for the first sight, you will describe
one item on the painting, such as the trees. For the second sight item, you will
describe a second item on the painting, such as the sky. For the third sight item, you
may describe the rocky path, and so on.
DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION
Topic
Apple
Sight
large, round, red, ripe
Touch
cold, smooth, firm
Smell
fragrant, inviting
Taste
horrible, overripe
Sound
nothing
Concluding Opinion
wish I hadn’t eaten it
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DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE
1. Topic: Apple
A. Large, round, red, ripe.
B. Cold, smooth, firm
C. Fragrant and inviting
D. Horrible, overripe.
Clincher
E. Regret eating
DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION
When writing your paragraph, you may choose to answer where, when, or why to give
you information to start your sentences.
Where?
In the basket,
When?
After I pick it up
Why?
Because it is overripe
THE APPLE
In the basket, I spy an exceptionally large, red apple. After I pick up
the apple, it feels cool, smooth, and firm to the touch. The fragrant smell
invites me to taste it. Eagerly, I bite it. Upon tasting it, I learn that it is
horrible and disgustingly overripe. Because it is overripe, it tastes like old,
stale apple juice and feels like mush. As a result, I am sorry that I ate it.
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DESCRIPTIVE PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph. As you edit and improve your
paragraph, mark off the column on the right.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
X
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
X
Capitalization
X
Punctuation
X
Spelling
X
Varied Sentence Openers
X
Transition Words (Surprisingly, as a result, and the varied sentence openers, for
example, for instance, specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case,
like)
X
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ASSIGNMENT 3.1
Describe a computer.
INVENTION
Topic
Sight
Touch
Smell
Taste
Sound
Concluding Opinion
STRUCTURE
Complete the Descriptive Paragraph Outline below. Remember if the topic is not
edible, you may exclude the sense of taste. Likewise, if it doesn’t make a noise, you
may exclude sound.
1. Topic: Computer
A. Sight___________________________________________________
B. Touch__________________________________________________
C. Smell___________________________________________________
D. Taste___________________________________________________
E. Concluding Detail________________________________________
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COMPOSITION
To create information for your sentence openers, answer where, when, or why for
your topic.
Where?
_______________________________________________________________________
When?
_______________________________________________________________________
Why?
_______________________________________________________________________
Using the information above, write your descriptive paragraph.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
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Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (Surprisingly, as a result, and the varied sentence openers,
for example, for instance, specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this
case, like)
Remember these words are suggestions. You may use others.
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ASSIGNMENT 3.2
Describe a toy.
INVENTION
Topic
Apple
Sight
large, round, red, ripe
Touch
cold, smooth, firm
Smell
fragrant, inviting
Taste
horrible, overripe
Sound
nothing
Concluding Opinion
wish I hadn’t eaten it
STRUCTURE
Complete the Descriptive Paragraph Outline below. Using the previous example,
create descriptive paragraphs for the topics below. If the topic is not edible, you may
exclude the sense of taste. Likewise, if it doesn’t make a noise, you may exclude it.
1. Topic: Favorite Toy
A. Sight___________________________________________________
B. Touch__________________________________________________
C. Smell___________________________________________________
D. Taste___________________________________________________
E. Concluding Detail________________________________________
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COMPOSITION
To create information for your sentence openers, answer where, when, or why for
your topic.
Where?
_______________________________________________________________________
When?
_______________________________________________________________________
Why?
_______________________________________________________________________
Using the information above, write your descriptive paragraph.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
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REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (Surprisingly, as a result, and the varied sentence openers, for
example, for instance, specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case,
like)
Remember these words are suggestions. You may use others.
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ASSIGNMENT 3.3
Describe a chocolate chip cookie. (Pick a different type of cookie if you wish.)
INVENTION
Topic
Apple
Sight
large, round, red, ripe
Touch
cold, smooth, firm
Smell
fragrant, inviting
Taste
horrible, overripe
Sound
nothing
Concluding Opinion
wish I hadn’t eaten it
STRUCTURE
Complete the Descriptive Paragraph Outline below.
Using the previous example, create descriptive paragraphs for the topics below. If the
topic is not edible, you may exclude the sense of taste. Likewise, if it doesn’t make a
noise, you may exclude it.
1. Topic: Chocolate Chip Cookie
A. Sight___________________________________________________
B. Touch__________________________________________________
C. Smell___________________________________________________
D. Taste___________________________________________________
E. Concluding Detail________________________________________
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COMPOSITION
To create information for your sentence openers, answer where, when, or why for
your topic.
Where?
_______________________________________________________________________
When?
_______________________________________________________________________
Why?
_______________________________________________________________________
Using the information above, write your descriptive paragraph.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
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REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (Surprisingly, as a result, and the varied sentence openers, for
example, for instance, specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case,
like)
Remember these words are suggestions. You may use others.
34
WRITING A BIOGRAPHICAL PARAGRAPH
To give someone a really good understanding of the life and character of a person, we
write a biography. To write one of these paragraphs, you tell your reader about the
person’s background (birth and death), education, values, and accomplishments.
BIOGRAPHICAL PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION
Topic
A. Background
city, birth, parents
B. Education
school, natural abilities
C. Life experiences
D. Values
E. Impact on others
James Watt, inventor of modern steam engine
1. born at Greenock in 1736
2. father blockmaker
1.
2.
3.
4.
weak child, homeschooled,
natural with math and machines,
became apprentice to mathematical
instrument maker in London
1. at 23, studied steam engine, 1759
2. at 33, patented his improved engine, 1769
3. later opened engine shop, with Boulton,
Birmingham
4. 1800 retired wealthy
5. died 1819, at Heathfield, near Birmingham
1. hard work,
2. weak in body,
3. strong in mind
Changed the world by making engines
efficient
35
36
BIOGRAPHICAL PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE
I. Introduce James Watt, invented modern steam engine
A. Background
1. Born 1736 Greenock
2. father blockmaker
B. Education
1. Weak child, homeschooled
2. Natural in math and machines
3. At 19, apprentice mathematical instrument maker in
London
C. Life Experiences
1. at 23, studied steam engine
2. at 33, patented his improved engine,
3. later opened engine shop,
4. 1800 retired wealthy
5. died 1819
D. Values
1. Was weak in body
2. Strong in mind
3. Persevered
E. Impact, changed the world with his contributions
When you create an outline, and want to add extra details under a heading, like we did above,
you number the details and line them up under the first letter of the heading.
Ex.
D. Values
1. Was weak in body
2. Strong in mind
3. Persevered
37
BIOGRAPHICAL PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION
James Watt, the chief inventor of the steam-engine, was born at
Greenock in 1736. His father was a blockmaker. As James was very
weak as a child, he was educated at home. Eventually, he showed a turn
for mathematics and machines. In 1755 he was sent to London to learn
the trade of a mathematical instrument maker. Ill-health compelled him
to return to Glasgow in 1756, where he set up as a mathematical
instrument maker. Later, in 1759 at the age of 23, he began to study the
steam-engine. Ten years later, in 1769, he patented his improved steam
engine. With Boulton, he set up engine works near Birmingham and
became very prosperous. He retired from business in 1800, and died at
Heathfield, near Birmingham, in 1819. James Watt, although thought to
be physically weak, proved himself to be mentally strong. He was very
studious and persevered through his weaknesses. Because Watts made
the steam engine, which had an impact on every other industry, more
efficient, Watts literally changed the world.
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ASSIGNMENT 4.1
Write a biographical paragraph for a person from your history studies.
INVENTION
Even though numbers have been added under the headings of background,
education, life experiences, and values, you do not have to use every number.
Topic
1.
A. Background
city, birth, parents
2.
3.
1.
B. Education
2.
school, natural abilities 3.
4.
1
2.
C. Life experiences
3.
4.
1.
D. Values
2.
3.
E. Impact on others
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STRUCTURE
I. Topic:_____________________________________________
A.________________________________________________
B.________________________________________________
C.________________________________________________
D.________________________________________________
Clincher
E.________________________________________________
COMPOSITION
Using your outline, write your biographical paragraph.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
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_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (and, namely, for instance, in fact, specifically, generally,
sometimes, in particular, for example, later, after, soon)
41
ASSIGNMENT 4.2
Write a biographical paragraph about an author.
INVENTION
Even though numbers have been added under the headings of background,
education, life experiences, and values, you do not have to use every number.
Topic
1.
A. Background
city, birth, parents
2.
3.
1.
B. Education
2.
school, natural abilities 3.
4.
1
2.
C. Life experiences
3.
4.
1.
D. Values
2.
3.
E. Impact on others
42
STRUCTURE
I. Topic:_____________________________________________
A.________________________________________________
B.________________________________________________
C.________________________________________________
D.________________________________________________
Clincher
E.________________________________________________
COMPOSITION
Using your outline, write your biographical paragraph.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
43
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (and, namely, for instance, in fact, specifically, generally,
sometimes, in particular, for example, later, after, soon)
44
ASSIGNMENT 4.3
Write a biographical paragraph about a scientist or an inventor.
INVENTION
Even though numbers have been added under the headings of background,
education, life experiences, and values, you do not have to use every number.
Topic
1.
A. Background
city, birth, parents
2.
3.
1.
B. Education
2.
school, natural abilities 3.
4.
1
2.
C. Life experiences
3.
4.
1.
D. Values
2.
3.
E. Impact on others
45
STRUCTURE
I. Topic:_____________________________________________
A.________________________________________________
B.________________________________________________
C.________________________________________________
D.________________________________________________
Clincher
E.________________________________________________
COMPOSITION
Using your outline, write your biographical paragraph.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
46
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (and, namely, for instance, in fact, specifically, generally,
sometimes, in particular, for example, later, after, soon)
47
WRITING A CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH
A cause and effect paragraph is one that allows you to look at one event (or cause)
and then write about things that happen because of it. Basically, you are writing
about the effects that the cause did create or will create.
First, you state your cause and then list at least three effects. To make a really good
paragraph, you should also add information that explains the effects. You can think
of this as two ideas per effect. One to state the effect, and one to explain it.
CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION
Writing Assignment
Cause
Regular exercise valuable
1st Effect
Helps maintain healthy weight, prevent diseases
2nd Effect
Releases good chemicals in your brain
3rd Effect
Gives more muscles
CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE
I. Exercise keeps you healthy, happy, strong
A. Helps maintain healthy weight, prevents
diseases.
B. Releases good chemicals in your brain
C. Gives more muscles
Clincher
D. More muscles, more exercise, better health
48
CAUSE AND EFFECT PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION
Exercise is very important because it will keep you healthy, happy,
and strong. Because of modern research, most people know that
exercise is important for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing
diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. In addition to the
obvious health benefits, chemicals are released in your brain when
you are exercising that make you feel happier and more positive about
life. A final benefit is that regular exercise will give you big, strong
muscles. And the more muscles you have, the more you can exercise,
and the healthier you will become.
(For each effect, there is a bolded idea and an underlined idea.)
49
ASSIGNMENT 5.1
Write a cause and effect paragraph explaining why it is important to get enough
sleep. In your paragraph tell three things that happen when children don’t get
enough sleep or how sleep helps them. Your final sentence should restate the
importance of getting enough sleep.
INVENTION
Cause
1st Effect
2nd Effect
3rd Effect
STRUCTURE
I. ____________________________________________________
A. _________________________________________________
B. _________________________________________________
C. _________________________________________________
D. _________________________________________________
Clincher E. ________________________________________
50
COMPOSITION
Using the information above, write your cause and effect paragraph.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
51
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (as a result, in that case, thus, because of, hence, then,
therefore, accordingly, consequently, initially, while, when, new, before, recent,
next, finally, soon)
Remember these transitions words are only sections. You may use others that are
not on the list.
52
ASSIGNMENT 5.2
Write a cause and effect paragraph explaining why it is important to eat a good diet.
In your paragraph tell three things that happen when people don’t eat well. Your final
sentence should restate the importance of a good diet.
INVENTION
Cause
1st Effect
2nd Effect
3rd Effect
STRUCTURE
I. ____________________________________________________
A. _________________________________________________
B. _________________________________________________
C. _________________________________________________
D. _________________________________________________
Clincher E. ________________________________________
53
COMPOSITION
Using the information above, write your cause and effect paragraph.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
54
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (as a result, in that case, thus, because of, hence, then,
therefore, accordingly, consequently, initially, while, when, new, before, recent,
next, finally, soon)
Remember these transitions words are only sections. You may use others that are
not on the list.
55
ASSIGNMENT 5.3
Write a cause and effect paragraph explaining why it is important that children
spend time reading every day. Discuss the effects that reading has on the mind. Your
final sentence should restate the importance of reading.
INVENTION
Cause
1st Effect
2nd Effect
3rd Effect
STRUCTURE
I. ____________________________________________________
A. _________________________________________________
B. _________________________________________________
C. _________________________________________________
D. _________________________________________________
Clincher E. ________________________________________
56
COMPOSITION
Using the information above, write your cause and effect paragraph.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
57
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (as a result, in that case, thus, because of, hence, then,
therefore, accordingly, consequently, initially, while, when, new, before, recent,
next, finally, soon)
Remember these transitions words are only sections. You may use others that are
not on the list.
58
59
WRITING A COMPARISON PARAGRAPH
A comparison paragraph shows how two things are alike or similar. When you write a
comparison paragraph, you should state the two things you are comparing and then
support that statement with at least three examples of why they are similar.
COMPARISON PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION
TOPIC
Detail 1
CAT AND DOG SIMILARITIES
both mammals--have similar body
structure, fur, tail, and four legs
Detail 2
designed for life outside
Detail 3
give birth to live young
Concluding Detail
can be domesticated, make great pets
COMPARISON PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE
I. Cats and dogs similar.
A. Mammals, fur, four legs, tail__
B. Designed for living outside, breathe air, hunt _
C. Give birth to live young
Clincher
D. Domesticated, make great pets!_______________
60
COMPARISON PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION
Cats and dogs are very similar. Both animals are mammals, and
have similar body structure. They have fur, four legs, and a tail. Also,
both animals are designed for living outside. They both breathe air, and
they both know how to hunt for food. Like other mammals, cats and dogs
give birth to live young; however, unlike many other mammals, cats and
dogs can be domesticated. Both can live indoors with humans, making
them fantastic pets.
61
ASSIGNMENT 6.1
Write a comparison paragraph, comparing two people from history.
INVENTION
TOPIC
Detail 1
Detail 2
Detail 3
Concluding Detail
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary.
I. ____________________________________________________
A. _________________________________________________
B. _________________________________________________
C. _________________________________________________
D. _________________________________________________
Clincher E. ________________________________________
62
COMPOSITION
Write your own comparison paragraph. Make sure you include at least three
sentences to back up your claim.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
63
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words: also, likewise, similarly, so too, in the same way, both, and,
each
(These are just examples of transitions words you may use.)
64
ASSIGNMENT 6.2
Write a comparison paragraph, comparing two inventions or two physical items, such
as a pencil and a pen.
INVENTION
TOPIC
Detail 1
Detail 2
Detail 3
Concluding Detail
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify them if necessary.
I. ____________________________________________________
A. _________________________________________________
B. _________________________________________________
C. _________________________________________________
D. _________________________________________________
Clincher E. __________________________________________________
65
COMPOSITION
Write your own comparison paragraph. Make sure you include at least three
sentences to back up your claim.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
66
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words: also, likewise, similarly, so too, in the same way, both, and,
each
(These are just examples of transitions words you may use.)
67
ASSIGNMENT 6.3
Write a comparison paragraph, comparing two animals .
INVENTION
TOPIC
Detail 1
Detail 2
Detail 3
Concluding Detail
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary.
I. __________________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
Clincher
E. ___________________________________________
68
COMPOSITION
Write your own comparison paragraph. Make sure you include at least three
sentences to back up your claim.
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
69
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words: also, likewise, similarly, so too, in the same way, both, and,
each
(These are just examples of transitions words you may use.)
70
71
WRITING A CONTRAST PARAGRAPH
A contrast paragraph shows how two things are different. In a contrast paragraph,
you state the things that are different and then support that claim with at least three
examples that show the differences.
CONTRAST PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION
Differences between Cats and Dogs
TOPICS
CATS
DOGS
1st Difference
Meow
Bark
2nd Difference
Cats can retract
their
Dogs cannot retract
claws.
3rd Difference
cats can jump and
climb trees
dogs stay on the
ground
4th Difference
Cats potty train
themselves
Dogs have to be
potty trained
CONTRAST PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE
I. Cats and dogs, different
A. Cats meow, dogs bark
B. Cats retract claws, dogs cannot
C. Cats jump high, climb trees, dogs ground
Clincher
D. Cats potty train selves, dogs do not
72
CONTRAST PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION
Cats and dogs are very different animals even though they are both
mammals. One difference is the way they sound; dogs bark while cats
meow. Another difference is in the way their claws are made. Cats have
the ability to extend and retract their claws. Dogs do not. Also, cats have
the ability to jump very high and climb trees. Dogs, on the other hand,
tend to spend all of their time on the ground. One final difference is how
they are potty trained. Actually, cats do not have to be potty trained at
all. If you give a cat a litter box, they instinctively know what to do. On
the other hand, dogs typically take a while, and a few accidents, to potty
train. Regardless of the differences, however, they both make great pets.
73
ASSIGNMENT 7.1
Write a contrast paragraph, contrasting two people, real or imaginary.
INVENTION
TOPICS
1st Difference
2nd Difference
3rd Difference
4th Difference
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary.
I. ______________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
Clincher
E. ___________________________________________
74
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
75
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (although, however, but, despite, even so, in contrast, instead,
nevertheless, notwithstanding, on the other hand, regardless, still, though, yet)
(These are examples of the types of transition words that you may use for contrast
paragraphs. Remember there are others not listed.)
76
ASSIGNMENT 7.2
Write a contrast paragraph, contrasting two foods.
INVENTION
Differences between Cats and Dogs
TOPICS
1st Difference
2nd Difference
3rd Difference
4th Difference
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary.
I. ______________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
Clincher
E. ___________________________________________
77
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
78
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (although, however, but, despite, even so, in contrast, instead,
nevertheless, notwithstanding, on the other hand, regardless, still, though, yet)
(These are examples of the types of transition words that you may use for contrast
paragraphs. Remember there are others not listed.)
79
ASSIGNMENT 7.3
Write a contrast paragraph, contrasting two stories, real or imaginary.
INVENTION
Differences between Cats and Dogs
TOPICS
1st Difference
2nd Difference
3rd Difference
4th Difference
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary.
I. ______________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
Clincher
E. ___________________________________________
80
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
81
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (although, however, but, despite, even so, in contrast, instead,
nevertheless, notwithstanding, on the other hand, regardless, still, though, yet)
(These are examples of the types of transition words that you may use for contrast
paragraphs. Remember there are others not listed.)
82
83
WRITING A “HOW TO” PARAGRAPH
A “how to” paragraph teaches your reader how to do something new. In a “how to”
paragraph, you will give your reader steps to follow so that they can learn a new
skill.
Now it’s your turn to be the expert! Choose a topic, and start your title with “How
to.” Add a sentence or two to introduce or explain your topic. Then number the
steps in your paragraph, and start each step with a command.
“HOW TO” PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—INVENTION
Topic
How to Hang a Picture
Step 1
Ask friend to hold picture to help find a spot.
Step 2
Pick the spot you want to put picture.
Step 3
On wall, place mark along the top of the
frame in the center.
Step 4
Measure distance from the top of the frame to
the bracket on back.
Step 5
Measure the same distance from the 1st mark
on the wall.
Step 6
Make a second small mark on the wall.
Step 7
Pound nail ¼ in. into wall on second mark.
84
“HOW TO” PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—STRUCTURE
I. Hanging pictures make house feel homey.
A. Ask friend to hold picture against wall,
B. Pick the spot you want
C. On top of frame, near center, small mark
on the wall,
D. Measure distance top of frame to bracket
on back.
E. On wall, measure same distance down from
the first mark
F. Make a second small mark on wall.
G. Pound nail into wall, leaving abt ¼ in. out.
Clincher
H. Hang your picture
85
“HOW TO” PARAGRAPH EXAMPLE—COMPOSITION
How to Hang a Picture
When a house has pictures on the walls, the pictures make the
house feel homier. To acquire this effect, you have to decide where to
hang the pictures. To make your house feel homier, follow these steps
to hang your pictures perfectly. First, have a friend hold the picture on
the wall while you stand back to get a good view. Once it looks nice,
have your friend hold it in place. Next, using a pencil, make a light
pencil mark on the wall along the top of the frame in the center. With
a ruler, measure the distance from the top of the frame to the bracket
on the back of the painting. Measure the same distance down from
your mark on the wall, and make a second small mark on the wall.
Pound a nail into the wall where you made the second mark. Be sure
to leave the nail sticking out about one-fourth of an inch. Now you are
ready to hang your picture on the wall!
86
ASSIGNMENT 8.1
Write a “How to” paragraph, telling how to perform a chore such as make a bed or
clean dishes. (Another option is how to perform a science experiment.)
INVENTION
You do not have to have ten steps. Use as many steps as you need for
your topic.
Topic
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Step 7
Step 8
Step 9
Step 10
87
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary. Note: Place your clincher on your final item. You do not have to
use all of the lines below.
I. ______________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
E. ___________________________________________
F. ___________________________________________
G. __________________________________________
H. __________________________________________
I. ___________________________________________
J. ___________________________________________
88
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
89
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (first, second, next, finally, now, for example, for instance,
specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case, like, in no time, once)
90
ASSIGNMENT 8.2
Write a “How to” paragraph, telling how to cook a recipe.
INVENTION
You do not have to have ten steps. Use as many steps as you need for
your topic.
Topic
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Step 7
Step 8
Step 9
Step 10
91
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary. Note: Place your clincher on your final item. You do not have to
use all of the lines below.
I. ______________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
E. ___________________________________________
F. ___________________________________________
G. __________________________________________
H. __________________________________________
I. ___________________________________________
J. ___________________________________________
92
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
93
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (first, second, next, finally, now, for example, for instance,
specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case, like, in no time, once)
94
ASSIGNMENT 8.3
Write a “How to” paragraph, telling how to perform a physical activity, such as
shooting a basketball, swimming, dancing, roller skating, or walking.
INVENTION
You do not have to have ten steps. Use as many steps as you need for
your topic.
Topic
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Step 7
Step 8
Step 9
Step 10
95
STRUCTURE
Transfer your notes from the table onto your outline below. Remember to modify
them if necessary. Note: Place your clincher on your final item. You do not have to
use all of the lines below.
I. ______________________________________________
A. ___________________________________________
B. __________________________________________
C. __________________________________________
D. __________________________________________
E. ___________________________________________
F. ___________________________________________
G. __________________________________________
H. __________________________________________
I. ___________________________________________
J. ___________________________________________
96
COMPOSITION
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
97
REVIEW
Using the checklist below, review your paragraph.
Paragraph Checklist
Indent your first line.
Remove words like: “started to,” “began to,” “and then”
Capitalization
Punctuation
Spelling
Varied Sentence Openers
Transition Words (first, second, next, finally, now, for example, for instance,
specifically, to illustrate, thus, in short, even, in this case, like, in no time, once)
98
99