Introductory Paragraph:
Hook-
Main Ideas-
Thesis-
Body Paragraphs (same structure for each body paragraph)
1. Transition word or phrase that links this paragraph to the
previous one.
2. Mini-thesis (topic sentence) The arguable point that you will prove and explain in this
paragraph. Statement of this part of your argument (in
proving your thesis).
3. Context Sets up the quote you will use for proof by indicating,
through brief description of crucial plot events and/or
character details, where the passage comes from in the
text.
4. Proof – A direct quote from the book, properly cited with the
page number after it.
5. Analysis- Explains how the quote you just cited supports your
thesis. Addresses two or three specific words and/or
phrases from the quote, and explains how each of these
words/phrases may be interpreted to prove your point.
Focus is on close reading, symbol, metaphor, and
implication.
6. Repeat statement, proof, As needed, repeat the process of stating an idea, analysis supporting it with text, and analyzing the text.
7. Link to thesis If your analysis has not done so already, a statement of
how this points directly proves part of your thesis.
Body Paragraphs
In general terms, a body paragraph works to prove part of your thesis. added together logically, all of your body paragraphs (however many there are) will give and discuss enough evidence to prove your thesis as a whole.
In an English essay, each body paragraph must somehow include:
● A topic sentence (also called a “minithesis”), which tells what you will prove in that paragraph—
○ This should usually also include a transitional word or phrase.
● Evidence from the text (this could be a direct quote, a paraphrase, or a reference to a specific moment or idea).
● Context, as necessary, for the evidence—THIS COMES BEFORE THE EVIDENCE, and is a description of what’s going on, not a page number.
● An analysis that explains specifically and in detail how the evidence you’ve given supports the idea in the topic sentence/minithesis.
In a History essay, each body paragraph must somehow include:
● A topic sentence that states the theme of the paragraph.
● The theme should clarify how the paragraph relates logically to your larger argument. It should tie back to your thesis
● Use information from sources to support claims that you makedon’t use quotes to make statements for you. Use direct quotes sparingly; save them for especially revealing comments.
● Ideally, multiple sources should be used in each paragraph.
● Generally do not begin or end a paragraph with a quotation.
● Transition between paragraphs
Different Courses- Refer To Instructor Specifics.
● In a Science lab report, the “body paragraphs” include the following sections:
Maybe a Procedure section where you explain the methods and how the hypothesis will be tested.
Perhaps – Results section where you present the data in three forms: (1) paragraph(s) where the major trend and important data points and averages, (2) data table and (4) graph.
