Paragraphs are an essential tool to ensure that your writing is clear and can be understood easily. If you do not use paragraphs your writing becomes

Transcription

1 Paragraphs

2 Paragraphs are an essential tool to ensure that your writing is clear and can be understood easily. If you do not use paragraphs your writing becomes confused and unclear. Separate each new point with paragraphs and relevant connectives.

3 When to start a new paragraph: A new paragraph indicates a new focus in your writing. When you begin to discuss a new idea in your writing, use a new paragraph. Do not begin a new paragraph simply because you have written one or two sentences. Think about why you are moving on.

4 Try to start a new paragraph with a topic sentence: A topic sentence is the first sentence in a paragraph or exam response which sets out the main idea you will be discussing or answering. This is a useful tool to use in your extended writing in all subjects.

5 A topic sentence introduces the focus of your paragraph and often contains an intention e.g. what you intend to do in your answer. A topic sentence should not just be a simple fact. Make a point in your topic sentence that you will go on to expand in the rest of your paragraph. You should avoid writing I think or I like for a topic sentence.

6 Topic sentences For example, if you were beginning a task on what caused the start of WWI, don t just write: WWI started in A stronger topic sentence would be: There are many complex factors which contributed to the start of WWI. For a question about the advantages and disadvantages of solar panels, don t just say, I think solar panels are generally good. You could write, There are several advantages and disadvantages to using solar panels, mainly to do with the cost and effect on the environment, before moving on to discussing specific advantages and disadvantages linked with this.

7 Remember that connectives can help you transition to a new paragraph, e.g. Firstly In addition to this Furthermore Despite this Overall

8 Think about where the paragraphs should go in the following piece of writing

9 The internet has so many useful tools yet it can cause many problems in today s world. Although nowadays we take the internet for granted, we forget that we must be careful when using it. There are many issues which we may not consider. Cyber bullying can cause serious problems. People seem to forget that what they say online can be visible to thousands of people and can be shared easily. We shouldn t say anything online that we would not be prepared to say in person. Often, people assume they are anonymous but this isn t always true. Another example of a negative impact of the internet is the amount of identity theft. People can access personal details and commit fraud if the appropriate protection is not in place. This could lead to worry and stress. We need to ensure that our passwords are strong and that we only share information with reputable companies. Furthermore, scientists worry that young people spend so much time online, that they are missing out on time outdoors with their friends which could affect their development. In the past, children had to be more creative whereas now it is easy to stay at home and spend hours on the internet. Overall, the internet has changed our lives. Some would argue that this has helped us and let us improve our lives. However, many would argue that we need to be aware of possible dangers so that the internet doesn t ruin our lives.

10 Answers: The internet has so many useful tools yet it can cause many problems in today s world. Although nowadays we take the internet for granted, we forget that we must be careful when using it. There are many issues which we may not consider. Cyber bullying can cause serious problems. People seem to forget that what they say online can be visible to thousands of people and can be shared easily. We shouldn t say anything online that we would not be prepared to say in person. Often, people assume they are anonymous but this isn t always true. Another example of a negative impact of the internet is the amount of identity theft. People can access personal details and commit fraud if the appropriate protection is not in place. This could lead to worry and stress. We need to ensure that our passwords are strong and that we only share information with reputable companies. Furthermore, scientists worry that young people spend so much time online, that they are missing out on time outdoors with their friends which could affect their development. In the past, children had to be more creative whereas now it is easy to stay at home and spend hours on the internet. Overall, the internet has changed our lives. Some would argue that this has helped us and let us improve our lives. However, many would argue that we need to be aware of possible dangers so that the internet doesn t ruin our lives.