Five Paragraph Essay
Body Paragraphs
The next portion after the introductory part in a five-paragraph essay is the body. This portion further contains three paragraphs. The three paragraphs have their own significance because they too, play an important part in the success of an essay. In addition to conveying their own (thesis statement related) topic sentence and providing specific support they are responsible for maintaining a smooth flow of information.
Every body paragraph has its own topic sentence. The topic sentence must be powerful and should support the thesis statement. Choosing a topic sentence that has a weak connection with the thesis statement not only creates confusion but also makes the main idea, hard to prove and support. Remember that these three body paragraphs in addition to conveying its topic sentence, providing specific support to the topic sentence and maintaining smooth transition between paragraphs, work together towards a common goal and that is to prove the thesis statement. Here are some basic guidelines regarding the body portion of a 5 paragraph essay:
- Every paragraph should have a topic sentence, stated clearly without arousing any confusion and diversion.
- The topic sentence should link strongly with the thesis statement.
- Support, specific to the topic sentence must then be included so as to explain or prove the topic sentence stated. The supporting detail must be complete in terms of explanation, thus enabling a reader to fully understand the point the writer is trying to prove.
- Relevant and strong examples can also be used for specific support. Using facts and figures for supporting the topic sentence is also a good idea as long as they are from a reliable source.
- Every paragraph should maintain a smooth transition from its preceding paragraph and the upcoming paragraph. Change of paragraph should not disturb the flow of an essay.