Directions For Writing A Well-Developed Paragraph
I.
Write a strong Topic Sentence that expresses your stance/opinion on the topic.
Example: Topic – Why did Santiago go out so far into the sea?
Topic sentence: In The Old Man and The Sea, Santiago’s desire to prove that
he was not “unlucky” led him to go out too far into the sea. (Underline on
your handwritten paper and type in bold on your word-processed paper.)
II.
Your second sentence should begin with “For example” (in bold) and give one
reason to support your topic sentence. Add facts and details that support your
reason. As a summary, use a quote from the book to substantiate your point and
place the page number after the quote. (Italicize the quote.) Use the term, “This
shows that” (in bold) and give your explanation of the quote.
III.
Do this again for a second reason, but begin your sentence with “In addition.” (in
bold)
IV.
Do this again for a third reason, but begin your sentence with “Furthermore.” (in
bold)
V.
Write a summary sentence that strongly supports your topic sentence. Begin this
sentence with “Therefore.” (in bold)
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Directions: Write a well-developed paragraph on the following topic:
Why did Santiago go out so far into the sea?
Santiago’s Voyage
In The Old Man and The Sea,” Santiago’s desire to prove that he is not
“unlucky” leads him to go out too far into the sea. For example, Santiago has not
caught a fish in 84 days. The old man is known as a great fisherman, and his reputation
is at stake. “But after forty days without a fish the boys parents told him that the old man
was now definitely and finally salao, which is the worst form of unlucky…” (9) This
shows that Santiago has to prove to the boy, his village, and to himself that he is not
unlucky. Consequently, he goes out so far to catch a fish that he finds himself in
unfamiliar waters and can no longer see the shore or the lights of the city. In addition,
the old man stays out for four days without coming into shore. “Only I have no luck
anymore. But who knows? Maybe today.” (32) This shows that Santiago is confident
that his lack of catching a fish is simply because of bad luck and is no reflection on his
skill. Futhermore, Santiago continues to remain confident that his luck will change.
“Eighty-five is a lucky number.” (16) This shows that Santiago is determined to change
his luck and catch a fish no matter how long it takes. Therefore, it is very apparent that
Santiago’s need to change his luck resulted in him going out too far into the sea.
Tips for Development or Elaboration
Define
Explain (Give reasons)
Compare
Contrast
Tell a story
Give an example
Give a specific fact or expert opinion
(these may be quotes)
Define: Stadium food is a bit like fast food with fun as the main ingredient.
Explain: The hot dogs taste great because they're juicy and made from all beef.
Compare: Holding the warm peanuts in my hands is like sitting in front of a cozy fire.
Contrast: The pretzels have just the right amount of salt on them, unlike the ones at
the mall, which have either too much salt or none at all.
Tell a Story: I once skipped lunch and dinner just so I could eat more of the food at
the stadium.
Give an Example: One type of baseball stadium peanut is the shelled and salted
type.
Give a specific fact or expert opinion: A tablespoon of peanut butter contains 5
grams of protein.
Remember to use transitions to tie your ideas together!