Paragraph Writing

• Write a full, specific, well-constructed paragraph (with a clear topic sentence) in three drafts, selected from one set of topics below. Narrow your topic carefully to just one quality of the person you discuss or the best of multiple features or the most difficult of many possible parts, etc. Include specific examples or details. And provide adequate transition for coherence.

• Prepare at least two drafts: a preliminary draft, then a revised final draft. You may keep the drafts in a single file. Label each draft clearly as "Paragraph 2 draft 1" and "Paragraph 2 draft 2" after the date in the top left corner.

• Use the format required for formal compositions in the course: last name and automatic page numbering in a header, with personal and course information in the upper left corner, everything double spaced.

• After you finish your revised draft, exchange papers with a classmate and complete the online peer review. Prepare a third draft after the peer review, and label it "Final." Proofread the printed copy of this final draft carefully. 

• Save this assignment as "Paragraph 2" (without quotation marks), if all three paragraphs are in the same file. If you save each draft as a separate file, then save them as "Paragraph 2 draft 1" and "Paragraph 2 draft 2," and "Paragraph 2 final," respectively.

    Topics

1.    Write a paragraph in which you explain one way in which Conley's Honky has helped you understand the significance of race or class in American society. Compose a strong topic sentence in which you limit your topic to one important lesson you have learned from reading the book. In the body of the paragraph (at least 100 words), provide adequate examples and details to clarify your point of view. Remember to keep the focus limited in this one paragraph.

OR

2.     Write a paragraph in which you explain your relationship with someone older than you. Compose a strong topic sentence in which you characterize the relationship in one specific, well-limited way: supportive, nurturing, inspiring, tense, strained, distant, etc. In the body of the paragraph (at least 100 words), provide adequate examples and details to clarify the relationship for your reader. Remember to focus on one quality of the relationship only in this single paragraph.

OR

3.    Write a paragraph answering one of the following questions:

a. What is the one best feature of family life? Try to focus on what is best for one particular group, children or adults.

b. What is the one most difficult part of family living? Again, limit your discussion to what is most difficult for a child or a parent.

c. What is the one best or worst part of growing up as a child? Focus in this single paragraph on just one element.

d. What is the one most important advantage of growing up in a nontraditional family (single-parent, etc.)? Concentrate on explaining one main advantage.

e. What is the one most important part of a satisfactory relationship between parents and children (or a parent and a child)?

Back to English 111 main page. Form for peer review.