ENGLISH– GRADE 8 (4TH QUARTER)
QUARTER 4: WEEK 1
APPROPRIATE GRAMMATICAL SIGNALS FOR IDEA DEVELOPMENT
Background Information
Information presented by writers is easily understood if you (as a reader) are familiar with the different ways of
organizing ideas. In determining the pattern of idea development, you must consider the grammatical signals or expressions
found in the text that you read. For example, if you are reading a passage and you came across the expressions “due to”,
“because” “as a result”, and “therefore” you can use them as your clues that the paragraph uses the cause and effect
pattern. With the knowledge of grammatical signals, you will then find it easier to grasp the information and comprehend
the ideas shared by the writer.
Below are some of the widely used patterns and the transition devices that go with them. After reading the key
concepts, be ready to accomplish simple activities that will enable you to successfully work on the final task for this lesson.
Patterns of Idea Development
1. General to particular/specific
This is a pattern of development that begins with a general idea or statement that is followed by specific
details to support and explain it. The details may become more specific as development continues. The pattern
ends with a general idea that summarizes all the details.
Grammatical signals
• for example
• namely
• in fact
• such as
• for instance
• in other words
• like
• that is
• indeed
• specifically
• including
Example
Angelo can play several musical instruments such as violin, guitar, saxophone, and piano.
- general idea: musical instrument
- grammatical signal: such as
- particular or specific ideas: violin, guitar, saxophone, and piano
Virtues like patience and self-control are necessary for this position.
- general idea: virtues
- grammatical signal: like
- particular or specific ideas: patience and self-control
2. Claim and counterclaim
A claim is a statement that presents an arguable position. It reflects your interpretation, belief, or opinion. The claim
typically answers the question: “What do I think?” To respond to a claim by denying it with a corresponding reason or
evidence is to make a counterclaim.
A counterclaim is the strongest argument against a claim. The claim and counterclaim pattern can be found more
frequently in political journalism, as well as letters to the editor, magazines, and argumentative speeches.
Logical items are words that denote concrete objects, ideas or events, etc. They can also be called content words
because they carry ideas. They provide relevant information that justify the claims or counterclaims.
Grammatical
signals
• claim
• assert
• truth
• false
• contradict
• challenge
• correct
• affirm
• agree
• confirm
• according
to
Example
Claim vs. Counterclaim
Claim:
I believe that Japanese literature was heavily influenced by cultural contact with China
and their literature because the early Japanese literary works were often written in classical
Chinese.
Claim: I believe that Japanese literature was heavily influenced cultural contact with China
and their literature
(This is the claim since it expresses what the speaker believes in and is trying to prove.)
Grammatical signal: because
Logical item: the early Japanese literary works were often written in classical Chinese. (This is the
logical item which gives pertinent information to justify the claim.)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
perhaps
likely
imagine
might
probably
see
suggest
Counterclaim:
According to my research, it was Indian Literature that had an influence on Japanese literature
through the propagation of Buddhism in Japan. (logical item)
To counter or argue a claim, consider a different opinion or a contrary view. Then provide the
evidence that would back up your argument.
Proving a claim
• Claim: Green-backed herons in Japan imitate people who feed bread to fish found in
ornamental lakes.
• Reasons and evidence: Those clever birds use pieces of bread to bait fish within easy
reach. Egrets in the Caribbean also use bread to lure fish. These birds even catch fish using
their yellow feet. They stand in low water on one foot while they wag their foot in the water to
attract the attention of nosy fish.
3. Problem – solution
This is a method of organization composed of two main sections: the problem and the solution. The problemsolution pattern is used in persuasive writing with the aim to:
a. convince the reader to support a certain course of action; and
b. make the reader change his or her opinion or behavior by showing a problem that exists, then providing a
solution.
In the problem section, the writer aims to identify the different sides of the problem being discussed and
offer evidence for these problems while in the solution section, the possible support and answers are suggested
and explored.
Grammatical
signals
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
the problem is
the question is
a solution
one answer
a difficulty is
clearly
obviously
to solve
Example
Coming to a new school is hard, so we should figure out how to make students feel
welcome. New students have to fit in with new classmates in an unfamiliar place with
unfamiliar rules. This problem can make them feel lonely. Instead of just expecting new
students to make all the effort, we can help them fit in. One of us can volunteer to show
the new student around and sit with him or her at lunch. The rest of us can introduce
ourselves, learn the new student’s name, and share something about our school or
ourselves. Together let us make our school a friendlier place to be.
• Problem – New students have to fit in with new classmates in
an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar rules.
• Grammatical signal – this problem
• Solution – help them fit in
- Volunteer to show the new students around
- Sit with him or her at lunch
- Introduce oneself, learn the student’s name and
- share something about oneself and the school to the new student
In writing a problem-solution pattern, you must consider the following question frames:
• What is the problem?
• Who has the problem?
• Why is it a problem?
• What is causing the problem?
• What solutions have been suggested or tried?
• What are the pros and cons of various solutions?
• Which solutions worked or seemed to have the best chance for solving the
problem?
4. Cause and Effect
It describes how one event influenced a later event or what caused an event to take place. In this type of
pattern, an author may either focus on both the causes and effects or may address only the cause or the effect.
Grammatical signals
• because
• because of
• since
• for
Example
Because the alarm was not set, we were late for work.
(signal)
(cause)
(effect)
Due to Kara’s laziness, she failed the English test.
(signal)
(cause)
(effect)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
on account of
due to
as a result
therefore
thus
that is why
so
hence
for this reason
consequently
Camille could not attend the class
(effect)
for he was ill.
(signal) (cause)
To effectively write a cause-and-effect pattern, these question frames must be given attention:
•
•
•
•
•
What were the specific events that happened?
Why did the events happen? What were the causes?
What were the results or outcomes of these events happening? What was the effect?
Did the prior events cause or influence the main event? If so, in what ways?
What is the significance of the event and/or the results (outcomes)?
Directions: Use a separate sheet of paper in answering all the succeeding activities.
Activity A. Name that Expression
Complete the given table by placing the grammatical signals in their corresponding columns.
consequently
namely
Cause and Effect
such as
according to
for example
due to
Problem-Solution
a solution
obviously
General to
Particular/specific
hence
that is why
Claim and
counterclaim
Activity B. Pattern and Signal Identification
Read the given texts and answer the questions that follow by writing the letter of your choice.
The surface of the Earth is divided into pieces called “tectonic plates” that move. When
plates rub against each other, they do not move smoothly.__________, earthquakes occur.
1. Which of the following is the most appropriate transitional device to complete the sentence?
a. Due to
c. Because of
a. As a result
d. Since
2. What type of idea development is used?
a. Cause and effect
b. Problem-solution
c. General to particular/specific
d. Claim and counterclaim
In Japan, most families now celebrate Christmas, not because of its religious meaning,
but purely as a merrymaking occasion. According to the Wall Street Journal, Santa Claus’s
cheery red face is plastered in shop windows in major cities of China. 4Yes, the Christmas fever
is capturing China’s newly rising urban middle class as an excuse to shop, eat and party.
Adapted from WBT Society, Pennsylvania(www.jw.org)
3. What type of idea development is used?
a. Cause and effect
b. Problem-solution
c. General to particular/specific
d. Claim and counterclaim
4. Which transitional device is used to show claim or counterclaim?
a. because
c. According to
b. but
d. and
Cooking the perfect pizza at home can be quite a challenge. If the oven is too hot, the crust
will burn and if it isn’t hot enough, the pizza may get soggy. ____________, all you need to do is
to get yourself a pizza stone that will get very hot when preheated and will allow your crust to fully
cook without burning it.
5. What type of idea development is used?
a. Cause and effect
b. Problem-solution
c. General to particular/specific
d. Claim and counterclaim
6. Which of the following signals will best complete the paragraph?
a. To solve this problem
c. Imagine
b. The question is
d. For this reason
There are many things a student can do to supplement his learning of a second
language. ____________, students can attend churches where the target language is
spoken. They can make many friends and attend numerous gatherings for free. Through these
interactions, students are guaranteed opportunities to learn and practice the new language.
7. Which of the following grammatical expression will best complete the paragraph?
a. Such as
c. Namely
b. Like
d. For instance
8. What pattern of idea development is presented in the paragraph?
a. Cause and effect
c. General to particular/specific
b. Problem-solution
d. Claim and counterclaim
Activity C. Study Habits
Write a 3-5 paragraph essay focusing on your study habits (how you study) as you go for distance learning.
Underline and label the kind of grammatical signals you have used in the composition.
Use the following guide questions as you work on the task and consider the sample and the rubric below.
-
What problems do you usually encounter in distance learning?
What causes the problems that you have?
What solutions do you have so you may learn best despite not having a face-to-face class?
What are the different study habits that you have? What do you do to understand the topics even without the presence
of your teacher?
- How will you prove to the other students that your study habits are effective, and they must follow your example?
Content
Organization
Mechanics
and Grammar
Use of
grammatical
signals
5
There is one clear,
well-focused topic.
Paragraph
answered all guide
questions about
biases.
The sentences
follow a logical
sequence. The
ideas are written
coherently.
No errors in
spelling,
punctuation,
capitalization,
sentence structure
and grammar.
Four (4) or more
grammatical signals
are appropriately
used
RUBRIC FOR SCORING ESSAY
4
3
There is clear but
There is somewhat
supporting information is clear but more
general.
supporting details are
Paragraph answered 4
needed.
guide questions about
Paragraph answered 3
biases.
guide questions about
biases.
The sentences follow a
The sentences follow a
somewhat logical
somewhat logical
sequence. Some ideas
sequence. Some of the
are written coherently.
ideas are not written
coherently.
Few errors are observed Many errors of spelling,
in spelling, punctuation,
punctuation,
capitalization, sentence
capitalization, sentence
structure and grammar,
structure and grammar;
but meaning is not
meaning confused or
obscured.
obscured.
Only three (3)
grammatical signals are
appropriately used
1
Only two (2)
grammatical signals are
appropriately used
2
Vague or unclear topic
Inadequate.
Paragraph answered 0-2
guide questions only
about biases.
The sentences do not
follow a logical
sequence. Most of the
ideas are not written
coherently
Dominated by errors in
spelling, punctuation,
capitalization, sentence
structure and grammar;
meaning at times
unidentifiable.
Only (1) grammatical
signal is appropriately
used
ENGLISH 8 (4TH QUARTER)
QUARTER 4: WEEK 2
EXPANDING THE CONTENT OF AN OUTLINE
Background Information
Have you experienced wanting or needing to write about something but do not know how to start it? Most of the
time when we are asked to write, our minds are filled with so many ideas that we want to say or include in our writings. The
difficulty then arises when we cannot organize these ideas understandable to our readers. As a result, our composition
seems to be out of focus.
Organization in writing is very important that is why outlining plays a very important role in creating a piece of writing.
An outline is like a blueprint that engineers use in building a structure. It is a general plan of what you are going to write. It
helps you group ideas into main points; thus, providing logical connections.
In outlining we can get information from primary and secondary sources.
A primary source is a record made by people who saw or took part in an event (originates from the past). A primary
source gives you direct access to the subject of your research. It provides first-hand information.
Examples: autobiography, letters, diaries, speeches, photographs, interview.
A secondary source, on the other hand, is a record of an event written by someone absent during the given
incident. It provides second-hand information and commentary from other researchers.
Examples: biography, textbooks, encyclopedia, magazine articles, dictionaries.
As we gather information using these sources, we may start arranging the essential ideas to form an outline. In
formal writing, we have two types of outline. The first is the topic outline and the second is the sentence outline.
A topic outline hierarchically presents your ideas or information by showing which among them is your main idea
and which are your sub-points. It lists words or phrases. On the other hand, a sentence outline lists complete sentences
rather than words or phrases only.
An outline has three main parts, the introduction, the body, and the conclusion.
The introduction should contain your thesis statement or the topic of your research as well as the purpose of your
study. It should be an “Attention Getter”.
The next part is the body. It is where you will present all your arguments to support your thesis statement. Develop
the body by identifying the main points and supporting details. Generate ideas by freewriting about the ideas that are related
to the topic.
The last one is the conclusion. The conclusion is where you form a summary of all your arguments so you can
arrive at your final position. Write a conclusion that has a memorable closing.
You may format both types of formal outlines (topic outline and sentence outline) in the same way.
• Place your introduction and thesis statement at the beginning, under Roman numeral I.
•
Use roman numerals (II, III, IV, V, etc.) to identify main points that develop the thesis statement.
•
Use capital letters (A, B, C, D, etc.) to divide your main points into parts.
•
Use Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc.) if you need to subdivide any As, Bs, or Cs into smaller parts.
•
End with the final roman numeral expressing your idea for your conclusion.
The number of main points depends on the length of article or essay. Here is what the skeleton of a traditional formal outline
may looks like. The indention helps clarify how the ideas are related.
I.
Introduction -Thesis statement
II. Main point 1 → becomes the topic sentence of body paragraph 1
A. Supporting detail → becomes a support sentence of the body
paragraph 1
1. Subpoint → example to illustrate the main point
2. Subpoint → example to illustrate the main point
B.
Supporting detail
1. Subpoint
2. Subpoint
II. Main point 2 → becomes the topic sentence of body paragraph 2
A. Supporting detail
B. Supporting detail
III. Conclusion or concluding sentence
2
Consider the following examples as you recall the basic concepts in outlining:
Topic Outline
Main point 1
Main point 2
Conclusion
Main
point 1
Main point
2
Conclusion
Birds as Insect Controllers
I. How birds help
A. Have a high metabolism rate
B. Eat nearly twice weight
1. 3-oz. to 5 ½ oz. ratio in birds
2. 10-lb. to 18 1/3 lb. ratio in humans
II. How environment helps
A. Vegetation
1. Windbreaks
2. Living fences
3. Shrub buffers
B. Water
1. Farm ponds
2. Grass waterways
III. Birds are an essential part in
in the biodiversity
Sentence Outline
Birds as Insect Controllers:
I. Birds eat insects.
A. The birds have a high metabolism rate.
B. The birds eat almost twice their own weight.
1. A 3-ounce baby bird will eat 5 ½ ounces of insects.
2. A 10-pound human baby would have to eat 18 1/3
pounds of food.
II. The environment attracts birds.
A. Planting the right vegetation attracts birds.
1. Windbreaks provide birds protection.
2. Living fences provide birds nesting and roosting sites.
3. Shrub buffers provide birds protection.
B. Developing water sources attracts birds.
1. Farm ponds provide birds with water and food.
2. Grass waterways attract birds of different varieties.
III. Birds are an essential part in maintaining
balance in the biodiversity.
Webster’s New World Student Handbook, Second Edition, p. 3
In expanding an outline, add information that support and strengthen your main topic. You can cite specific
examples in this part of your paragraph.
Here is an example of how you can take your topic outline (Birds as Insect Controllers) and expand it into a
paragraph.
Birds as Insect Controllers
Birds are warm-blooded vertebrates that belong to the class Aves. Most of them eat insects that’s why they are
considered to be insect controllers. They have a high metabolism rate. As a result, they can eat almost twice their weight.
A 3-ounce baby bird will eat 5 ½ ounces of insects. While a 10-pound human baby would have to eat 18 1/3 pounds of
food.
Most birds live in the forest and grassland. It was known by the researchers that different types of environments
attract birds. One way to attract birds is by planting the right vegetation. Farmers also install windbreaks and shrub
buffers that protect birds Also, living fences are built to provide birds nesting and roosting sites. Another way to attract
birds is by developing water sources. Farm ponds provide birds with water and food. Grass waterways attract birds of
different varieties. That’s why birds are often seen in swamps.
Birds are an essential part in maintaining balance in biodiversity. That’s why we need to protect their habitat and
conserve the remaining species of birds in the wildlife.
Activity A. Read each item carefully. Choose the letter of the correct answer and write it on your answer sheet.
1. Which of the following is not a description of an outline?
a. It is a plan for or summary of writing projects.
b. It is a general plan of what are you going to write.
c. It is a tool used to organize written ideas about a topic.
d. It is a device used to arrange the title of the stories found in a book.
3
2. What type of source provides raw information and first-hand evidence?
a. primary source
c. tertiary source
b. secondary source
d. none of the above
3. Which of the following sources will you use if you would like to get information on current issues?
a. book
b. diary
c. newspaper
d. notebook
4. Which of the following best describes the secondary source?
a. It presents summaries of the materials.
b. It gives you direct evidence about the topic you are researching.
c. It is usually provided by the person who experienced an incident.
d. It provides you second-hand information and commentary from other researchers.
5. Which part of an outline contains your thesis statement or the topic of your research as well as the purpose of your study?
a. body
b. conclusion
c. introduction
d. title
6. Which among the given choice below is an example of a primary source?
a. articles
b. dictionary
c. letter
d. textbook
7. All are examples of secondary sources except ____________.
a. biography
b. encyclopedia c. magazine
d. speech
8. Which of the following is NOT true about an outline?
a. An outline is just additional work for you to do.
b. An outline will make your essay more organized.
c. An outline can make you save time in writing your essay.
d. An outline is a general plan of what you are going to write.
9. What is a topic outline?
a. It supports the main idea in a paragraph.
b. It tells the reader what the entire paragraph is all about.
c. It lists complete sentences rather than words or phrases only
d. It arranges your topic hierarchically and shows what will you talk about.
10. Which among the parts of an outline form a summary of all your arguments so you can
arrive at your final position?
a. body
b. conclusion
c. introduction
d. title
Activity B. Complete the outline below using either primary or secondary sources. (1 point each and 2 points for the
concluding sentence)
Topic: Why Swimming is an Ideal Sports for Kids
I. Swimming is a great alternative to other youth sports.
A. __________________________________________________
B. __________________________________________________
II. Swimming provides some unique additional benefits.
A. __________________________________________________
1. _______________________________________________
B. __________________________________________________
1. _______________________________________________
III. Concluding sentence: __________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
ENGLISH 8
QUARTER 4: WEEK 4
COMPOSING EFFECTIVE PARAGRAPHS
4
ENGLISH 8 (4TH QUARTER)
QUARTER 4: WEEK 3
COMPOSING EFFECTIVE PARAGRAPHS
Background Information
Writing enables a person to think better. When a student learns to write, he becomes more capable of
understanding and analyzing what he reads. Writing a good paragraph is one of the essential skills a student must learn in
order to communicate effectively. Even in this digital age, and in any field or profession, writing skill is important and
necessary. Through writing, you can be able to express your views on a particular topic you wish to convey to your readers.
For some who lacks the skill in writing, it is not always easy to construct good sentences, and it is even harder to
put these sentences together into a well-organized paragraph. It takes practice, determination, and perseverance to develop
such skill.
In order to write an effective paragraph, you must understand the different parts, as well as the essential elements
of paragraph writing.
A Paragraph is a collection of related sentences dealing with a single topic. It is generally built around three parts:
Topic sentence, Supporting sentences, and Concluding sentences.
Parts of a paragraph
1. Topic sentence- states the main idea of the paragraph. It can be found at the beginning, middle, or end of a
paragraph.
Topic Sentence at the Beginning of the Paragraph
Constructing a wedding cake is a complicated process. Before any baking takes place, the size of the
cake and the decorative design to be used must be determined. Then the layers are baked. On a large cake the
bottom layers may be as much as sixteen inches in diameter. Because of their size, these layers must be baked
one at a time, a process which may actually take an entire day. Once the layers are cooled, same-size pairs are
matched and frosted. Since large wedding cakes are surprisingly heavy, half -inch dowel rods must be measured,
cut, and carefully driven into the bottom layers. These wooden posts provide hidden support for the weighty upper
layers. When all the layers are set in place, flowers, garlands and leaves of frosting are added. These delicate
touches individualize the wedding cake and transform it from merely a cake into a culinary work of art.
Topic Sentence in the Middle of the Paragraph
When a camera flash is used in a low-light environment, the subject's eyes may appear red in the finished
photograph. What is known as "red-eye" is the result of light from the flash reflecting off the pupils of the eyes. The
phenomenon of red-eye can be lessened by using the red-eye reduction feature found on many SLR
cameras. This feature activates a lamp which shines a small light directly into the subject's eyes. When this
happens, the diameter of the pupil is reduced, thus tightening th e opening in the iris. Since a smaller pupil means
a smaller host for the reflection, the chances of red -eye occurring are greatly reduced.
Topic Sentence at the End of the Paragraph
A study at one person showed that owning a pet can change a hardened prison inmate into a more caring person.
Another study discovered that senior citizens, both those living alone and those in nursing homes, became more interested
in life when they were given pets to care for. Even emotionally disturbed children have been observed to smile and react
with interest if there is a cuddly kitten or puppy to hold. An animal, then, can be a means of therapy for many kinds of
individuals.
2. Supporting sentences- explain the topic and follow one another in a logical sequence.
3. Concluding Sentence- restates the main idea or gives a generalization that sets the tone of finality.
Essential Elements of a Paragraph
The secret in writing an effective paragraph depends on five (5) essential elements; these are unity, order,
coherence, emphasis, and completeness.
Unity in a paragraph starts with the topic sentence which is most often the first sentence in the paragraph. A
paragraph is considered unified when every sentence develops the point made in the topic sentence. It has a single focus.
Order refers to the way you organize and arrange your ideas. A solid paragraph always has a definite organization.
In presenting the details, you can choose to have the chronological order, order of importance, or another logical
presentation.
Coherence is the quality that makes your writing comprehensible. Sentences within a paragraph must work
together as a whole. In order to achieve coherence, you can use transitional devices. These words will connect one
sentence to the next. You can use transition words that show addition, order, comparison, contrast, and result.
5
Here are examples of transitional devices you can use in developing a paragraph.
Addition
also
besides
furthermore
further
for example
In addition
Order
First
Second
Third
Comparison
similarly
likewise
as compared with
Contrast
however
still
nevertheless
Results
therefore
hence
thus
next
Lastly
equally important
in the same way
apart from
but
due to
as a consequence,
Emphasis is the principle of the paragraph composition in which the writer would want to make his point evident
by providing a good and interesting introduction and a strong conclusion.
Completeness means your paragraph is well-developed. It is considered complete if all sentences clearly and
sufficiently support the main idea.
Sample paragraph
Main idea: Hazards of Smoking
Directions:
Activity A. Identifying the topic sentence. In each paragraph below, identify the topic sentence. Write your answers on
a separate sheet of paper.
1. The best trip my family ever took was to Boracay Island in Aklan. We traveled by plane and it took us one and
a half hour to reach our destination. The white beach is Boracay’s main tourist attraction. We did cliff diving,
island hopping trips, parasailing, and snorkeling. I like the food best, especially the various seafood dishes. It
was indeed the best adventure I ever had.
2. No one likes to eat with a dirty spoon, fork, and knife. It is very important to make sure that you wash the utensils
before using them. Maintaining the cleanliness of utensils prevents the transmission of germs, viruses, and
bacteria.
Activity B. Forming a unified and coherent paragraph. Determine the correct sequence of the sentences in each set to
form a unified and coherent paragraph. Write 1 for the first sentence, 2 for the next, and so on. Place the
numbers on the answer lines.
1. ______More so, they always console me when I am weary and remind me to trust God always in every
decision I make.
______My parents have influenced my life in many ways.
______First, they provide everything I need.
______Indeed, my parents have molded me to become a better and God-fearing person.
2. ______Whenever I call on to God in prayer, I feel reassured that things will eventually fall into place.
______Aside from making me spiritually strong, prayers make me a hopeful person.
______Prayer is a form of communication with God.
______Truly, when prayer is sincere, it makes me feel rich with blessings and God’s love.
Activity C. Writing a paragraph. Following the sample graphic organizer, create a summary paragraph of a chosen
topic. Once complete, write a five-sentence paragraph and underline the topic sentence.
6
Sample constructed paragraph:
Having a cellphone can help a child in several ways. A child who has a cellphone can call for
help in an emergency. Also, he can easily communicate with his parents and friends. Finally,
cellphones can help him learn new things virtually. For these reasons, if possible, a child should have
a cellphone.
________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
___________________
7
ENGLISH 8 (4TH QUARTER)
QUARTER 4: WEEK 4
Develop a paragraph that illustrates each text type
(Narrative, Expository, and Explanatory)
Background Information
When considering the type of paragraph, you are about to write, you need to consider a few different
questions. What is the purpose of the paragraph? What are you trying to communicate to your reader? The answers to
these questions will guide you as you consider both the content of your paragraph and the effect you are trying to achieve.
There are many different types of paragraphs. Each type has a different purpose, and writers make use of different means
in achieving each purpose.
Narrative Paragraph
A narrative paragraph tells a story, either real or fictional, by introducing a topic, giving more details, and then ending
with a reflection or transition to another paragraph.
How to Write a Narrative Paragraph
1. Create an engaging topic sentence. Draw the reader into your narrative paragraph by creating excitement or
suspense with your opening sentence.
2. Set the scene of the story. Provide a setting for your story and orient your reader showing the time when your
story happens.
3. Present the story chronologically from its beginning. Start the story by describing the problem or idea that kicks
off the action.
4. Relate the central conflict of the story. Add narrative details to explain what may happen next in the story.
5. Provide resolution to the story. Present details to the reader as to how the story ends. In a good story, often this
ending will be a surprise twist or simply a happy moment.
Example
Peddling On My Own
Learning how to ride a bike for the first time was a nerve racking independent moment. I was about five
years old when my sister informed me that I was too old to still be riding a bike with training wheels. That was the
time I decided not to depend on them anymore. Even though I had some doubt, my sister and I went outside and
started to take the little wheels off my bike. After my bike went through the transformation, I was now ready for the
big moment. With butterflies in my stomach, I slowly got on the bike, and with my shaky hands, I gripped the
handles tightly. Meanwhile my sister was holding on to me to help keep my balance. I was so afraid that she would
let go, yet I was determined to ride this bike on my own. Next with a little push from her, I started to peddle. The
faster my bike went, the faster my heart raced. Finally, I looked back nervously and noticed that my sister let go
of my bike a long time ago. I was so excited that I accomplished freedom on my bike that I forgot to peddle. The
next step I remember, I was lying on the ground, yet I did not care because of the adrenaline rush. I will never
forget the exhilarating moment and growing up stage of riding a bike without training wheels.
https://www.chegg.com/homework-help/questions-and-answers/peddling-learning-ride-bike-first-time-nerve-racking-independent-moment-fiveyears-old-sis-q27106746
Expository Paragraph
An expository paragraph explains something; its purpose is to help the reader understand. Exposition often
includes techniques such as the use of examples or illustrations to support a point or the use of some kind of ordering
(chronological or numerical, for example) to help a reader follow a process. Exposition needs to be clear; language is often
quite direct although sometimes a writer may use language devices to help illustrate a point.
How to Write an Expository Paragraph
1. Select a topic and write a thesis statement. It makes sense to start by choosing a topic for your essay. Sometimes
you are given one by your teacher and then you won’t have the headache of coming up with your own topic.
However, if you have to develop your own topic then you need to make sure it would be narrowed down.
2. Choose a development method. When you have a topic along with a thesis sentence, you can move on in
choosing a development method.
3. Organize your content. You have to know what parts of the essay you are going to have before putting your
thoughts on a paper.
4. Develop topic sentences for your body paragraphs. This is where you bring your plan to implementation.
5. Write the body paragraphs. Now is the time to put some muscles on the skeleton. You can write your body
paragraphs describing your idea or concept following the development method selected and backing it all up with
pieces of evidence.
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6. Develop your introduction. Although it may seem like writing the introduction belongs to the earlier stages, it is
not so. It is much easier to work on the introduction when you have composed the main body of your expository
essay.
7. Write the conclusion. Expository essays should have a strong conclusion that is based on the preceding
paragraphs.
Example
Going to college can be expensive. First, college tuition and room and board can cost anywhere from $2,000 to
more than $10,000 per semester. Other expenses make going to college even more expensive. For example, books typically
cost between $100 and $500 each term. Second, materials are also very expensive. Paper, notebooks, writing utensils, and
other supplies required often cost more at the college bookstore than at any local discount department store. For instance,
a package of notepaper costing $2 at a discount store might cost $5 at a college bookstore. Finally, there are all kinds of
special fees added onto the bill at registration time. A college student might have to pay a $50 insurance fee, a $20 activity
fee, a $15 fee to the student government association, and anywhere from $500 to $100 for parking. There is another fee if
a student decides to add or drop classes after registration. The fees required to attend college never seem to end.
https://www.time4writing.com/articles-about-writing/expository-paragraphs/
Explanatory Paragraph
An explanatory paragraph gives an overall description of something that may be difficult to understand. These
paragraphs are comprised of information that concisely and clearly explain a process or present other people's opinions
or views in detail without being overly analytical or critical.
How to Write an Explanatory Paragraph
1. Choose a theme or concept. Avoid focusing on an opinion; instead, choose a concept that you know about,
such as a hobby, a character in a book, or a pet.
2. Write a topic sentence. This sentence, which is the first part of the paragraph, should set the tone for the rest
of the explanatory paragraph. When writing, ensure that you do not only state the focus on the paragraph but
also include keywords that will enable the rest of the sentences to center on these words.
3. Ensure that your paragraph has a logical progression of thought and that readers can easily follow your
ideas and explanations. Your sentences should also include evidential support and should connect to the logic
of the topic sentence.
Example
The general principles of making cheese from milk have changed little for nearly 3000 years. The aroma, texture,
and taste of cheese depend on slight variations of the process used to produce it, but all methods consist of two to four
basic steps. The first step consists of the coagulation of the protein ‘casein’ by adding acid or enzyme to the milk. Next, the
liquid, called whey, is drained, leaving a semi-solid cheese, called curds, which may be eaten in this form or processed
further. All soft or cream cheeses are of this type. Hard cheese undergoes two additional steps in the process. The semisolid cheese is matured until it reaches the required level of acidity, at which time it is salted and pressed into forms or
molds to give it the distinctive shape and size of a particular cheese. The final step is the aging process during which the
world’s most famous cheeses acquire their unique flavors from the place and length of storage. cheese. The final step is
the aging process during which the world’s most famous cheeses acquire their unique flavors from the place and length of
storage.
https://aso-resources.une.edu.au/academic-writing/paragraphs/for-an-explanation/
Directions: Read the instructions carefully. Use a separate sheet of paper in answering the succeeding activities.
Activity A. Identifying Types of Paragraphs. Identify each paragraph as narrative, expository or explanatory. Write the
answer on the space provided before the number.
__________________________ 1. I remember when I first arrived in the United States. Even before the plane landed, the
little windows in the airplane revealed snow and ice-covered houses and buildings. As I walked off the plane, cold air crept
through the corrugated ramp that led to the airport terminal. Some people inside the airport were wearing big coats and
hats, which I had seen on television, but never up close. I felt a little dizzy and needed to sit down, and then my cell phone
rang. It was my Aunt Sophia. She was waiting for me outside in the passenger pick-up area, so I walked quickly to the exit,
forgetting all about my luggage. When the sliding glass door opened to the outside, there was my aunt–a woman I hadn’t
seen in over ten years–wearing a parka and waving her arms frantically in my direction.
___________________________2. Different colleges and universities have differing engagement levels with the Greek life
groups. Some have 0% engagement. The first step into joining a sorority group is to ensure that, the school one attends to
have the Greek life groups. Secondly, one should determine when the recruitment date is by accessing their offices or
checking online. Do some thorough research about the sorority group before joining. The information is readily available on
the sorority group websites. This way, one can be in a position to determine whether they want to associate with the group
or not.
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__________________________3. English is the language spoken throughout most of Canada, but in Quebec, the most
populated province, and in areas near Quebec, French is the first language. Because of this, Canadians recognize French
and English as official languages that are used in business and government. Many people are bilingual and easily go from
French to English and vice versa when speaking with tourists. The farther west you go, the more English you’ll hear, but it
is common to meet people throughout the country who are familiar with both languages.
___________________________4. Getting a college education in a private school in the Philippines is expensive because
of several reasons. First, the college tuition fees and miscellaneous fees range from PHP 10,000 to even more than
PhP100,000.00 (depending on the academic program being undertaken). Second, the books are costly. Third, materials
like papers, notebooks, and other school and office supplies are also costly. Finally, there are also special fees, like fees
for removal examinations or completion of grades. The fees that college students pay seem not only endless but increasing
in prices, as well.
__________________________5. Sunday is the most rewarding day for me because it is the only day when my family and
I can do what we like together. Every Sunday morning, I get up at six. My two sons and I jog around our neighborhood. At
about seven we come home and have breakfast together. At nine we go to church and come home at about twelve. After
having lunch, at about two we often go to the countryside for a nice walk, or visit a relative, or go shopping. We often get
home at about eight and have a small dinner. After dinner, my sons prepare the school equipment they need in the following
days. Then we usually watch a film on TV and then go to bed at about ten. Before falling asleep, I often expect that the next
Sunday comes soon.
Activity B. Writing a Paragraph. Choose one from the three types of paragraphs: Narrative, Expository or Explanatory,
then write a short paragraph about any topic of your choice from the given topics below:
A. Most memorable experience in school
B. Things to do at home during quarantine
C. Reasons why online gaming is addictive
________________________
(Type of paragraph chosen)
__________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
Rubric for Scoring of Paragraph
5
4
3
2
Excellent
Very
Impressive Convincing
impressive
Criteria
Topic Sentence
Contains one main idea.
Supporting Details
Presents interesting, concrete, and
descriptive examples of details related
to the topic.
Organization and Transitions
Shows thoughtful, logical progression
of supporting examples with the use of
transitional devices
Relevance to the text type
Illustrates the features of the chosen
text types.
Language Mechanics and
Convention
Displays minor spelling, punctuation,
and grammatical errors
Total
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1
Beginning
ENGLISH 8 (4TH QUARTER)
QUARTER 4: WEEK 5
Develop a paragraph that illustrates each text type
(Factual, Personal Recount, and Persuasive)
Background Information
Factual Recount
A factual recount is true or concerned with actual details or information rather than ideas or feelings about it. Factual
recounts are often used in news, police reports, historical accounts, etc. Moreover, it involves writing factual information
such as police reports of an incident, historical recount, biographical and autobiographical recounts. A factual recount is
objective, and its main purpose is to inform and to entertain.
How to Write a Factual Recount
1. Answer WH questions. To share as many information as you can, try giving details that answers the questions:
who, what, where, when, why, and how.
2. Gather the facts. Gather information from credible sources to support your topic sentence.
3. Write a summary of the text. Try to paraphrase the information that you have gathered from different sources
instead of copying it word for word. Synthesize the most important information to form a coherent paragraph.
4. Organize it. Weigh which of the information is most relevant or most important to least relevant. The most
relevant facts should be given emphasis in the paragraph.
Example
PH receives 400K more Sinovac vaccine doses from China
By Krissy Aguilar –March 24, 2021
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines on Wednesday received 400,000 additional doses of Sinovac’s COVID-19 vaccine
CoronaVac. The doses arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) aboard a Philippine Airlines flight past 7
a.m. The donated CoronaVac vaccines were in addition to the initial 600,000 doses that arrived in the country last February
28.
https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1410635/break-ph-receives-400k-more-coronavac-from-china#ixzz6pzx9oFBH
Personal Recount
A personal recount is a spoken or written account of an event or experience that the writer or speaker was personally
involved in. Personal recounts are often used in a diary, autobiography, anecdote, journal, and personal letter. Normally,
the writer retells an activity to build a relationship with the reader.
How to a Write a Personal Recount
1. Write your recount in the first person because it happened to you. You may use pronouns such as I, we, our, or
us. For example, "I felt excited," or “We helped in many household chores during the lockdown.”
2. Use the past tense because it has already happened. For example, "It was the biggest fish I had ever seen!"
3. Recounts are written in the order in which they happened. This is called chronological order. Use adverbs such
as firstly, next, then, and finally.
4. Using descriptive words will make it seem like your reader is there with you. You may use adjectives in your
sentences. For example, "The fish was shiny and slippery."
Example
When I was five years old, I took an extreme liking to my sister's toys. It made little difference that I had a trunk
overflowing with dolls and toys of my own. Her "big girl” treasures were much easier to break, and much more appealing.
Likewise, when I was ten and she was twelve, the earrings and make-up that she was slowly permitted to experiment
withheld my attention, while my former obsession with catching bugs seemed to be a distant and fading memory.
Starlight, Star Bright K Garnett (1998) https://sites.google.com/site/p5cwriting/references/examples-of-personal-recounts
Persuasive Paragraph
A persuasive paragraph tries to convince the reader that a particular point of view is worthy of consideration. It
wants you to consider both sides of an issue, but it reveals a bias in favor of one side over another. Facts may be presented
in support of a position, but the writer is not being objective. The point of view is subjective. Persuasive paragraphs may be
found in advertisements, political speeches, and opinion articles.
How to Write a Persuasive Paragraph
1. State Your position. Your audience should fully understand from the start where you stand and what you intend
to argue about.
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2. Get organized. Organization starts with a clear, argumentative thesis statement.
3. Persuade with passion. Research what you are assigned, find a way to convince your reader and develop a real
sense of ownership in the argument.
4. Know your reader. Think about whom the writing is actually for or whom you are trying to persuade. Every reader
has his/her own unique needs and wants.
5. Support your argument. Present your argument, support it with strong pieces of evidence, analyze them, and
continually develop a sense of why, what, and how all of it together makes your stance the correct one.
Example
The school fair is right around the corner and tickets have just gone on sale. We are selling a limited number of
tickets at a discount, so move fast and get yours while they are still available. This is going to be an event you will not want
to miss! First off, the school fair is of great value when compared with other forms of entertainment. Also, your ticket
purchase will help our school, and when you help the school, it helps the entire community. But that’s not all! Every ticket
you purchase enters you in a raffle draw to win fabulous prizes. And don’t forget, you will have mountains of fun because
there are acres and acres of great rides, fun games, and entertaining attractions! Spend time with your family and friends
at our school fair. Buy your tickets now!
https://patternbasedwriting.com/elementary_writing_success/paragraph-examples/
Learning Competency:
Develop a paragraph that illustrates each text type – Narrative, Expository, Explanatory, Factual, Personal Recount, and
Persuasive.
Directions: Read the instructions carefully. Use a separate sheet of paper in answering the succeeding activities.
Activity A. Identify each statement as FR (Factual Recount), PR (Personal Recount) and PP (Persuasive).
_____1. This is a text type, which convinces the reader that a particular point of view is worthy of consideration.
_____2. This type of recount tells that the writer or the speaker is personally involved.
_____3. This type of paragraph is concerned with actual details and information.
_____4. This type of recount used diaries, anecdotes, or journals.
_____5. This type of paragraph may be found in advertisements, political speeches, and opinion pieces.
Activity B. Copy the chart on your answer sheet then classify the given examples as to what category each may belong:
Factual Recount, Personal Recount or Persuasive Paragraph.
Diary
Autobiography
Political Speeches
Anecdote
News Article
Editorial article
Advertisements
Personal Letter
Police Report
Factual Recount
Personal Recount
Historical Recount
Persuasive Paragraph
Activity C. Writing a Paragraph. Choose one from the three types of paragraphs: Factual Recount, Personal Recount,
or Persuasive Paragraph, then write a short paragraph about one of the suggested topics below:
1. What am I 20 Years from Now?
2. Benefits of Studying before Exam
3. Prevention of the Spread of Coronavirus
________________________
(Type of paragraph chosen)
__________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________
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