ENG
Mr. Plewis
The Essay: Transitions between Paragraphs
Not only does your essay require smooth transitions between sentences, but you must also learn
to effectively show the movement from one body paragraph to the next.
Use the examples below to create transitions between the body paragraphs in your essay. Do
note, however, that your first body paragraph does not require this sort of transition as the
“directional statement” in the introductory paragraph already serves this function.
The transition must come in the first sentence of the paragraph. This means that the topic
sentence serves the following three functions:
1. transitions from the paragraph above
2. introduces the next topic that supports the thesis
3. links explicitly to the thesis
Introductory Paragraph: Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird shows that courage comes in
many forms. By considering key characters, one learns that courage means doing what is right no
matter what the cost. This theme is expressed in the decisions made by Atticus Finch, Mrs.
Henry Lafayette Dubose, and Mayella Ewell.
Topic Sentence One:
Because Atticus Finch feels that it is his duty as a just lawyer to take on Tom Robinson’s
case, he proves to be a courageous man who follows his morals even though his family comes
under scrutiny.
Identify…
a) the topic: _______________________________________________
b) link to thesis: _____________________________________________
Topic Sentence Two:
Although Atticus exemplifies true courage, Mrs. Dubose’s character presents a more
private form of courage as she struggles to free herself from morphine despite the extreme pain it
makes her feel.
Identify…
a) the transition: _____________________________________________
b) the topic: _______________________________________________
c) link to thesis: _____________________________________________
Topic Sentence Three:
Mrs. Dubose’s courageous spirit greatly contrasts that of Mayella Ewell in that Mayella
shows the harm that comes from failing to do the right thing even though it may lead to personal
suffering.
Identify…
a) the transition: _____________________________________________
b) the topic: _______________________________________________
c) link to thesis: _____________________________________________