Students will practice identifying topic sentences, analyzing transitions, and evaluating paragraph cohesion to prepare for academic writing tasks on the ITEP Academic-Plus exam.
Warm-up: What Makes a Good Paragraph?
A strong paragraph presents a focused idea and develops it clearly with support. Academic paragraphs begin with a topic sentence, include supporting sentences with evidence or explanation, and finish with a concluding sentence or a smooth transition. Ideas must connect logically and clearly.
Weak Example: University is difficult. Students have many classes and sometimes get confused. Orientation can help. There are events and sometimes people talk to new students. Also, it’s helpful.
Strong Example: A comprehensive orientation course should be a required part of every first-year university program because it helps students adjust both academically and socially. Such a course can introduce students to academic expectations, such as time management and research skills, while also helping them build a network of peer support. These early connections and study strategies reduce the risk of dropout and increase student confidence. As a result, orientation courses promote long-term student success.
Discuss: What makes the second paragraph more effective? How do transitions and support strengthen the writer’s message?
Grammar Focus: Paragraph Openers, Conjunctions, and Transitions
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