Guidelines for Writing a Multiple Paragraph Research Essay

 

Introduction
Paragraph

Topic Sentence: States the main idea of the paragraph.
It is usually a very broad and general statement.

Specific Sentences: Sentences the state some specific facts or pieces of information related to the topic sentences

Thesis Sentence: The focus of your paper is stated in a thesis statement and is usually included as the last sentence in an introductory paragraph.

Link to example
Paragraph Structure
All sentences are arranged appropriately ( in sequence) within each paragraph . Each paragraph has itŐs own topic sentence.
Link to example
Paragraph Coherence
 All the sentences within the paragraph are logically related to each other.
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Paragraph Unity
There should be only one fully developed topic per paragraph.
Every sentence in each paragraph should support the topic sentence in that paragraph.
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Sentence Skills
 All sentences grammatically correct and clear.
There should be compound and complex sentences in addition to simple sentences.
Use of a variety of sentence starters within the paragraph.

Link to example

Link to compound and comples sentence examples.
Concluding Paragraph

A paragraph the restates the thesis statement first, then moves to some specific sentences and closes with a general statement.
It is arranged in oppostie order of the introduction paragraph.
Link to example
Paragraph Transitions
 A transitional sentence is used to link one paragraph to the following or previous paragraph.

Link to example


Link to a list of transitional words.
Works Cited
An alphabetical list of all books, reference books, and web sites that you used to gather information on this topic.
Use the MLA format.

Link to example

Link to MLA guidelines

 

Research Paragraph & Paper Examples
by Students in Somers CSD

Grade 3
Grade 4
Grade 5
Grade 6
Grade 7

Introduction Paragraph:
Research Essay:
Concluding Paragraph:
Grade 8
 Research Essay: Birth Date Research
Research Essay: Personality Study

SIS Writing Rubric

 

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Laura Luke, Instructional Technology Specialist, Somers CSD
November 2000.