Paragraph Structure
A paragraph requires the use of a particular structure. Namely:
- Topic sentence - this establishes the key idea and creates a direct connection to the hypothesis. It must not be narrative.
- Information sentences - develop the key ideas through the use of evidence.
- Clincher sentence - either [a] reiterates the key idea in different words, or [b] creates a sense of connection between the idea created in this paragraph and the next one.
Sample Topic Sentences
Without a doubt, your topic sentences set the scene for each of your paragraphs and are essential in conveying your argument.
Good Samples
Here are topic sentences that would work for the hypotheses listed on the earlier page.
Bad Samples
Here are some poor quality topic sentences.
Good Samples
Here are topic sentences that would work for the hypotheses listed on the earlier page.
- 'Whilst he was by no means a perfect emperor, it is clear that Nero has been the victim of undue criticism from the ancient sources'. Links to the point that Nero has been unfairly criticised. Relates back to previous paragraph which suggests that he had done many bad things.
- 'It became incredibly clear during the course of the Opium Wars, that the Chinese had underestimated British naval superiority'. Links to the point that the Chinese were defeated in the war because of a difference in naval strength.
- 'A study of Athenian 'Old Comedy' reveals a great deal of political satire'. Links to the point that Athenian 'Old Comedy' was often satirical.
Bad Samples
Here are some poor quality topic sentences.
- Nero was born in 37 AD. States a fact and gives the impression that the paragraph is going to narrate events.
- China wasn't as good as the British in the Opium War. Idea is unclear - what is meant by 'good'?
- Aristophanes was a playwright in ancient Athens. States a well known fact and doesn't connect to the argument.
- 'Qin Shi Huangdi was able to unify China because of his own talent and strategies as well as the foundations of the Qin Empire laid down by his predecessors' (China Forum: 2013). You should not use quotes in place of your own topic sentence.