After reading about the paragraph in chapter 5 of our text, respond to

the questions below in the Discussion Boards by midnight EST on

Friday of this session.
What is an effective paragraph?
What is the relationship of the topic sentence to an effective
paragraph?
How are introductions and conclusions different than body paragraph?

As defined in the reading, a paragraph is effective when it satisfies the

four key elements: unity, adequate development, organization, and
coherence. To begin, unity in a paragraph is executed when there is a
clear idea that is being controlled. Straying away into various points
creates a difficult time for the reader; therefore, unity is vital in
maintaining clarity. Next, a writer must insert facts, data, figures, or
examples to support their idea. These will define adequate
development in a paragraph, as well as support the writers goal
(thesis). One of the biggest elements in writing an effective paragraph
is organization. The writer must properly order their ideas, facts,
arguments, and other elements to maintain the overall clarity and
fluidity of the piece. The fourth, and final, element is coherence.
Although cohesion may be seemingly obvious, it is usually the most
difficult to achieve. A writer must make sure that all elements come
together in the form of their conflicting and complimentary ideas in
their paper. By effectively applying these elements, a paragraph will be
well written, easy to read, and clear.
The relationship of the topic sentence to a paragraph is a vital factor to
an effective paragraph and well-written paper. The topic sentence will
be the glue in supporting the overall idea, or fact being
stated/debated/argued in the paragraph, and the rest of the paragraph.
This will give your paragraph good structure and clear order so that the
reader knows exactly how each idea ties together.
The introductions and conclusions are different than the body
paragraphs in numerous ways. The introduction is a brief overview of
what you will discuss throughout ALL of your paragraphs. In the intro
you will describe your topic, as well as, define your thesis. You do not
want to give to much detail or information, as you are going to go in
depth throughout the paragraphs, respective to each idea. The
conclusion is where you sum up your whole paper. This is where you

will explain how all the factors and ideas in your paragraphs ultimately
support/reject your thesis. These two are to be done with little details
and descriptions, due to the fact that this is what your paragraphs are
for.