Read & Watch: Outlining Main Idea, Supporting Details & Conclusion

OVERVIEW

 On this page, you will learn about writing a paragraph.  

  1. First, read the text and study the example. 
  2. Last, watch the video. 

READ

Read:

When you write multiple sentences to form a paragraph, you need to put the ideas in a logical order.  Each paragraph you write should have an introduction, body, and conclusion.  The introduction is the main idea or topic sentence.  The body includes supporting details.  The conclusion reviews what you said in the main idea and supporting details.

Introduction:  Main Idea (Topic Sentence):  the sentence that tells the reader what the paragraph is about

Every paragraph should include a topic sentence that identifies the main idea.  A topic sentence states the point the writer wishes to make about that subject.

Body:  Supporting Details:  sentences that give more information to the reader about the main idea

Conclusion:  the sentence at the end of the paragraph that reviews what was said

To keep your writing organized, you need to outline the main idea, supporting details, and conclusion before writing.

Example:

I. Introduction

A. Main idea/Topic Sentence - Pollution is dangerous for people and animals.

II. Body

B. Supporting details

1. breathing bad air

2. contaminated water

3. makes people and animals sick

III. Conclusion

A. Concluding sentence - People and animals will suffer if there is too much pollution.

 

Then, you can write your paragraph:

Pollution

Pollution is dangerous for people and animals.  Pollution in the air is bad to breathe.  Pollution creates contaminated water.  People will get sick if they drink bad water.  Pollution also makes animals sick.  People eat sick animals and can get sick.  People and animals will suffer if there is too much pollution.

WATCH

Watch:

PARTS OF A PARAGRAPH Links to an external site.