Lincoln-Way Style!
At Lincoln-Way we have a formula for successful
writing that you will be using in every English class.
This formula gives you:
Clear directions for how to organize every paragraph
Clear expectations as to what the teacher wants
One SOLID Lincoln-Way Paragraph looks like this:
1. Topic Sentence
2. First Assertion
3. First Evidence
4. First Elaboration
5. Second Assertion
(including transition word)
6. Second Evidence
7. Second Elaboration
8. Clincher Sentence
A Topic Sentence is:

The first sentence of a paragraph – it states one main point
(argument) for the paragraph

connects the main point of the paragraph with the main
point of the whole paper (thesis statement)

There is 1 topic sentence per paragraph
What is an Assertion?
An Assertion:
•States one clear REASON the topic
sentence is true
•Cannot be the exact same statement
as the topic sentence
•You must be able to prove that it is true!!
What is Evidence?
Evidence:
•Proves that the assertion is true
•Offers DATA (specific information!)
•Can NEVER EVER be the same
statement as the assertion!!!
• For example: If your assertion claims that the
sky is blue, your evidence cannot be the
following: “According to Mr. Paulson the
sky is blue.” Repeating something twice
doesn’t prove it.
What is an Elaboration?
An Elaboration:
•Explains WHY your evidence proves your assertion
• Uses YOUR OWN WORDS to:
• explain what the Evidence has proven but does
NOT repeat the Evidence
• explain how the Evidence proves the Assertion
• explain how the Evidence proves the Topic
Sentence and Thesis Statement
•
Each elaboration is AT LEAST 3-5
sentences!!
What is the Transition Word?
The transition word indicates that you’re moving from one idea
to another.
Some examples include:
•“Also”
•“In addition”
•“Furthermore”
•“Another”
The transition word will be
located in the 2nd Assertion.
“Toto – I don’t
think we’re in the
1st assertion
anymore!”
What is the Clincher Sentence?
The clincher is the final sentence of every paragraph
and it serves 2 purposes:
1. Restate (with different wording) your topic sentence
2. Remind the reader (breifly) what your 2 assertions
were