Page 4 Body Paragraphs

Body Paragraphs


The body of the essay explains aspects of the writer's opinion in at least one paragraph.


The most important idea is usually presented in the first sentence of the paragraph. This is called the topic sentence, which

  • is not a question

  • is not specific

  • is the subject of the paragraph

  • is controlled by ideas or reasons

  • may contain numbers (1, 2, 3 etc.)

Some key words are...


  • most remarkable
  • main point
  • central concern
  • key idea


Body paragraphs follow the order provided by the thesis statement.


On the previous page, in the essay introduction "Branding Yourself", the first body paragraph will be about teens' desire for acceptance and how this affects their online image.
  1. Sample topic sentence 1: Teens attach great importance to other people's opinions.

The second will be about taking risks on the Internet such as giving out private information.
  1. Sample topic sentence 2: Because they desire acceptance, teens may take risks on the Internet by giving out private information.

The third will be about gaining recognition in positive ways.
  1. Sample topic sentence 3: " Teens may gain recognition in many ways..."


Transitions


Transitions produce a smooth flow (coherence and unity) among sentences and paragraphs.

Sample transition words are as follows:

Way of Organizing Sample Transition Words Sample Sentence
Chronological then, later, next, afterward The first time I visit a site, I check whether adding a comment means I need to provide an identity; then, I either comment or avoid commenting.
Compare similarly, both, also Both children and adults are creating online identities.
Contrast in contrast, instead, however, yet I don't see value in linking my online identities to reality; yet, Internet companies ask for a phone number, a Facebook page, likes and dislikes, or security questions.
General to Specific for example, specifically, that is Not all Internet activity is unhealthy; for example, Facebook allows one to keep in touch with friends and family.
Cause and Effect therefore, thus, as a result, consequently, because Because teens value acceptance, they sometimes make aspects of their personal lives public.
Order of Importance first, foremost, above all, additionally Above all, teens attach importance to being accepted by their peers.



  Please contact your teacher if you have questions.