Writing Clear Paragraphs

by Donald, Robert; Moore, James D.; Morrow, Betty Richmond; Wargetz, Lillian Griffith; Werner, Kathleen

• ISBN13: 9780136465713
• ISBN10: 0136465714
• Edition: 6th
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1998-07-24
• Publisher: Pearson

Summary

This classic book/workbook helps readers who feel underprepared for writing tasks move step-by-step toward writing competency. Using a clear, informal, light-hearted narrative and intensive practice, it guides readers assuredly through the process of organizing a paragraph, structuring its sentences, and choosing effective wording and punctuation.Explains how to apply the details and methods of arrangement required to compose unified, coherent, and well-developed paragraphs for all major modes of writing -- narrating, describing, explaining a process, explaining with examples, comparing or contrasting, classifying, defining, persuading. Intersperses grammar instruction between writing instruction and word instruction. Features anecdotes, student and professional examples, cartoons, and exercises throughout. Provides a "Do's and Don'ts" section in all chapters. Includes numerous boxed Guidelines for a convenient quick overview or review of important concepts in encapsulated form.For anyone needing to develop writing competency at the paragraph level.

Table of Contents

1. The Paragraph.

Organization of a Paragraph. Topic Sentence. Body. Conclusion. Sentences. Words.

2. Narrating.

What is a Narrative? Organization of a Narrative Paragraph. Topic Sentence. Body. Conclusion. Sentences. Words.

3. Describing.

The Uses of Description. Objective vs. Subjective Description. Organization. Sentences. Words.

4. Explaining a Process.

Organization. Sentences. Words.

5. Explaining with Examples.

Organization. Conclusion. Sentences. Words.

6. Comparing or Contrasting.

Organization. Body. Sentences. Words.

7. Classifying.

Organization. Sentences. Words.

8. Defining.

Organization. Structure. Sentences. Words.

9. From Paragraph to Essay.

Introduction. Body.

10. Persuading.

Purpose of Persuasion. Types of Persuasion. Organization. Assignment. The Persuasive Essay. Words.

Sources.
Index of Exercises.
Index.