When it comes to body paragraphs--as with everything else in your essay--it really is all about the thesis! That's because you've got to know what you're trying to prove before you can prove it!
So, first start with the thesis and outline. DO NOT start writing paragraphs until you have an outline. In fact, if you don't have an outline written right now, stop reading this!
When you have a solid outline, it's time to write your body paragraphs. Follow the steps below to ensure that your paragraphs do their part in supporting the thesis.
- Start with number one on your outline.
- Write that reason out in a complete sentence. This becomes your topic sentence.
- Then choose one (or more) of the following ways to prove your thesis:
- Share an anecdote (a little story) that proves the topic sentence.
- Explain your topic sentence.
- Provide statistics and other facts that PROVE your topic sentence.
- When you finish explaining and proving your topic sentence, tell how your evidence proves the topic sentence, which ultimately proves your thesis.
- Finally, repeat steps 2-4 for each of your 3 reasons.
Here's an example outline with the first reason filled out:
Teens should limit their time playing videogames.
1. By limiting videogames, teens will improve their performance in school. In fact, my little brother, Alex, used to play Modern Warfare for four hours every day! When he brought home a report card full of failing grades, my mother decided to limit his time playing games. Every day, Alex was required to finish his homework before he turned on the Playstation, and he wasn't allowed to play for more than an hour. I remember how much he struggled when his friend, Shane, called to ask him to get online and he had to say no, because he was writing an essay for his English class, It was worth it though. Of course, his grades skyrocketed as a result of limiting his videogames!
2. So they will be more physically fit
3. So they can spend time with their families
When you have filled in your 3 reasons, it's time to write your introduction!
1. By limiting videogames, teens will improve their performance in school. In fact, my little brother, Alex, used to play Modern Warfare for four hours every day! When he brought home a report card full of failing grades, my mother decided to limit his time playing games. Every day, Alex was required to finish his homework before he turned on the Playstation, and he wasn't allowed to play for more than an hour. I remember how much he struggled when his friend, Shane, called to ask him to get online and he had to say no, because he was writing an essay for his English class, It was worth it though. Of course, his grades skyrocketed as a result of limiting his videogames!
2. So they will be more physically fit
3. So they can spend time with their families
When you have filled in your 3 reasons, it's time to write your introduction!
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