paragraph writing

Paragraphs are groups of sentences. They can be used to: • give a definition, explain a theory or a model See over • give a description of a practice e.g. work-place, interview situation, group • give justification for your position e.g. when you have to develop an argument See over • give your analysis and/or evaluation about what is happening in a particular situation/workplace practice in relation to theory See over. In general, a paragraph should have the following structure: • an introductory or topic sentence stating what the paragraph is about • sentences to develop this idea e.g. by explaining the idea further, giving examples • all ideas/examples/statistics that are not your own appropriately referenced • a sentence that concludes by stating the relevance of the ideas in the paragraph e.g. to the point (stated in the beginning sentence), to the assignment task or relevant part of the assignment task. So a sentence or two does not constitute a paragraph! At least four sentences are needed. Questions to ask yourself before you write your paragraphs Ask yourself what it is you need to do. Do I need to describe, e.g. a situation or a workplace? Do I need to give a reason for my viewpoint? Do I need to present an analysis, e.g. of a practice or behaviour? Do I need to give my analysis and evaluation, e.g. of a practice or behaviour? Do I need to reflect or give my opinion e.g. on a practice, situation, issue?