Welcome to this online video tutorial brought to you by HELPS.
This video will introduce useful advice on how to write a well-developed
paragraph.
In a previous online tutorial video we introduced you to real life assignment
question;
and talked about how to structure the introduction and conclusion
to an essay. Here is that assignment question.
Today we going to have a look at the structure of
the body paragraph. These paragraphs make up the most substantial part of an essay,
report or case study.
The body of your essay will consist of paragraphs which function
as building blocks in the construction of your overall paper.
The body is where you demonstrate your knowledge
and grasp of the material that you've read. It's also where you develop a
discussion
or argument. In order to substantiate your argument
you also need to offer 'evidence'. This could include examples
or quotations from 'authoritative sources'.
If you
experience difficulty in structuring and developing your body paragraphs
you can always talk to a HELPS advisor or one about volunteers.
They're always ready to help you if you need assistance at any stage at the
writing process.
A paragraph is a related group have sentences that develops
'one main idea'. Each paragraph in the body of the essay
should include these elements. Firstly, it should contain a topic sentence
that clearly states 'the main or controlling idea'.
It should then contain supporting sentences to explain
and develop the point that you're making. In most instances,
your points should be supported by some form of evidence from your readings
or examples drawn from the subject area. Don't just leave the evidence hanging
there
remember to analyse and interpret it. You should comment on the 'implication,
significance or impact' and finish off the paragraph
with a critical deduction that you've drawn from the evidence.
A concluding sentence that restates your point
analyses the evidence or acts as a transition
to the next paragraph represents effective writing.
In addition to commencing your paragraph
with a clear topic sentence it's important to use linking words and
phrases
to create 'cohesion' within and across paragraphs in your writing.
The words you see on your screen are what we call transition signals
or 'signpost words' and they can help the reader
follow the order and flow of your ideas.
Now let's try and identify the essential
elements to a paragraph by looking at an example taken from our assignment
question.
If you like you can pause this video to give you more time to read.
You'll notice the first sentence is the topic sentence
which clearly states the theme of the paragraph. This is followed by
the explanation or argument and then
substantiated through the integration at evidence
and demonstration of examples. Notice
that it is important to include some form of 'critical analysis'
or observation. Finally your concluding statement should articulate 'your voice'
or opinion.
To sum up let's try to remember
the following points. Always recall the essay question
as you write and continually link your body paragraphs
to the essay question. To ensure your writing is cohesive and coherent
use linking words. Try to synthesise your evidence
into each body paragraph, in order to substantiate your points.
Whenever you do use evidence, you should follow the referencing
guidelines that have been specified by your tutor or lecturer.
Don't simply state a fact or describe something.
Try to demonstrate to the lecturer that you have an opinion on the subject.
It's very important to make your voice 'transparent'
throughout your writing. If you feel that you need more help in writing an assignment
you can get free help at the HELPS unit.
We're located in building one, level 3
room 8. Just across from the Concourse Cafe
and the Career's office. Our contact details appear on your screen.
Please feel free to come and visit us and chat to an advisor
about receiving academic language support to complete your assessments.
We're at your service.
Thanks for watching and thanks for listening.