College Composition / Unit 14 CMP 0338 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
Model Paragraph Structures
The idea
Different reasoning strategies give body paragraphs different internal structures, each built around a working topic sentence.
In practice
Learn the common structures. First, cause and effect: a topic sentence names the cause or effect, then the paragraph traces the chain between them. Second, comparison and contrast: the topic sentence names both subjects and the basis of comparison, then the paragraph moves between them. Third, problem and solution: the topic sentence names the problem, the body describes it, and the end proposes a solution. Fourth, definition: the topic sentence names the term, the paragraph gives its dictionary meaning, then its extended meaning with examples. Fifth, analogy: the topic sentence links an unfamiliar idea to a familiar one, then the paragraph develops the likeness. Unit fifteen treats each strategy in depth.
Where people slip
A structure is a tool, not a template to fill. Choose the structure the paragraph's point calls for, and do not force a comparison onto material that is really about a cause.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Builds on
Unlocks
- Nothing yet depends on this.
Something wrong in this lesson? Flag it · Sources for College Composition