Paragraphs

Topic Sentence

Introduces the main idea of the paragraph.

Supporting Sentences

Provide evidence, details, and examples that back up the topic sentence.

Concluding Sentence

Summarizes the key point of the paragraph and hints at the next paragraph.

Clarity and coherence

The quality of the topic sentence in clearly presenting the main idea.

Relevance of supporting sentences

The importance of the supporting sentences in providing sufficient and varied evidence.

Effectiveness of the concluding sentence

The ability of the concluding sentence to wrap up the paragraph and link to subsequent ideas.

Paragraph Structure

The arrangement of a paragraph including topic sentence, supporting sentences, and concluding sentence.

When to begin a new paragraph

Typically indicated by a shift in focus or a new idea that requires elaboration.