HS 1161: English for Technical Communication

Department of Humanities and Social Sciences

NIT Warangal

Writing Paragraphs Odd Semester 2024

Notes:

Types of Paragraphs:

1. Descriptive Paragraph
Purpose: To describe a person, place, thing, or idea. It focuses on providing detailed
sensory information (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste) to create a vivid picture in the
reader’s mind.
Key Features:
- Rich in sensory details.
- Focuses on “showing” rather than “telling.”
- The description may not follow a specific order but can use spatial organization
(left to right, top to bottom, etc.).
- Uses adjectives, adverbs, and figurative language.

Example 1 (not a lot of detail): Ever since grade school, I have always been nervous
during tests.
V/s
Example 2 (detail showing purpose): I stared at the blank white paper of my exam and
desperately tried to focus. As the teacher announced that time was almost up, I remembered
the taunt of my evil grade-school teacher: “You’ll never pass this test. Just give up already.”
The memory of her words paralyzed my mind. Even more panic-stricken than before, I
stared wildly at my blank test, trying to remember what the teacher had said in class last
week or what I had read in the textbook.

2. Narrative Paragraph
Purpose: To tell a story or recount an event. It focuses on a sequence of actions or
events that happen over time.
Key Features:
- Includes characters, setting, and plot.
- Follows a clear sequence of events (chronological order).
- Often uses first or third person.
- Engages the reader by creating a storyline with conflict, climax, and resolution.
 Example: It’s been almost ten years since I first ran for political office. I was thirty-five at
the time, four years out of law school, recently married, and generally impatient with life.
A seat in the Illinois legislature had opened up, and several friends suggested that I run,
thinking that my work as a civil rights lawyer, and contacts from my days as a community
organizer, would make me a viable candidate. After discussing it with my wife, I entered
the race and proceeded to do what every first-time candidate does: I talked to anyone who
would listen. I went to block club meetings and church socials, beauty shops and
barbershops. If two guys were standing on a corner, I would cross the street to hand them
campaign literature. And everywhere I went, I’d get some version of the same two
questions.

3. Expository Paragraph
Purpose: To inform, explain, or clarify a specific topic, idea, or concept. To provide
the reader with factual information, helping them understand a subject better without
incorporating personal opinions or emotional influence.
Key Features:
- Provides detailed information or an explanation about a specific topic.
- Follows a logical sequence, often organized into cause-and-effect,
comparison, or problem-solution formats.
- The tone is neutral, presenting facts without personal opinions or emotions.
- May include facts, statistics, or examples to support the explanation.
- Focuses on being clear and straightforward to avoid ambiguity.

Example: One of the key benefits of regular physical exercise is its positive impact on mental
health. Research shows that physical activity releases endorphins, which are chemicals in the
brain that act as natural mood elevators. Regular exercise also reduces the levels of stress
hormones, such as cortisol, which can alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression.
Furthermore, engaging in physical activities like jogging, swimming, or even walking
promotes better sleep, which is crucial for maintaining emotional balance. Overall, the mental
health benefits of exercise are well-documented, making it an essential practice for both
physical and emotional well-being.

4. Persuasive Paragraph
Purpose: To convince the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint, belief, or action. To
persuade by presenting arguments, evidence, and appeals to logic or emotion, with the
goal of influencing the reader’s opinion or behavior.
 Key Features:
- Presents a clear position or opinion that the writer wants the reader to agree
with.
- Uses facts, statistics, examples, or expert opinions to support the argument.
- Often appeals to the reader’s emotions, values, or beliefs to strengthen the
argument.
- Uses strong, convincing words and phrases, such as “must,” “should,” or
“undeniably,” to emphasize the argument.
- May include a direct appeal to the reader to take action or change their
viewpoint.

Example: Immigration contributes to the overall health of the American economy. Despite
recent concerns related to the costs created by illegal and some legal immigration to the
United States, this country has largely benefited from the skills, talents, and ambition that
immigrants bring with them. American businesses gain from a good source of affordable
labor, while town and cities are revitalized by immigrant families who strengthen
communities through civic participation the generation of new economic activity. The United
States must continue to welcome new arrivals and help those who already here; otherwise,
the country will lose the advantages it has over other industrialized countries who compete
against us in the global marketplace and seek to recruit from a vast pool of unskilled and
skilled global workers.

Features of a good paragraph:

• Topic sentence – a strong opening sentence that clearly states the main idea
• Adequate development – the next sentences support the main idea/topic by providing
supporting details, examples or evidence (for expository and persuasive paragraphs)
• Pattern of development – there needs to be a clear pattern of development. The pattern
differs for different kinds of paragraphs. Some common patterns – chronological, cause
and effect, compare and contrast, example or illustration, problem and its solution.
• Unity – one clear topic for every paragraph, a new idea would introduce another paragraph
• Coherence – the sentences are logically organized and are connected through transitional
prompts.
• Concluding Sentence – the final sentence which summarizes the main idea and transitions
to the next paragraph.
Exercises:

1. Read the paragraph below and identify the topic sentence. Then, underline the supporting
details that contribute to the main idea.

Recycling plays a crucial role in reducing environmental pollution. By converting waste

materials into reusable products, recycling helps decrease the need for new raw materials,
which in turn reduces deforestation and mining activities. Additionally, recycling
conserves energy as producing items from recycled materials uses less energy compared
to producing them from scratch. Finally, recycling cuts down on the amount of waste that
ends up in landfills, which can emit harmful gases like methane. For all these reasons,
recycling is an essential practice for a sustainable future.

2. The following sentences are scrambled. Rearrange them into a coherent and well-structured
paragraph. Ensure that the flow of ideas is logical.

i. Online education allows students to learn at their own pace, which can improve retention
and understanding.
ii. Finally, online courses are often more affordable than traditional classes, making education
accessible to more people.
iii. As a result, online education offers numerous benefits for learners today.
iv. Additionally, it offers flexibility in scheduling, making it ideal for students who work or
have other commitments.
v. Online education has become increasingly popular due to its convenience and cost-
effectiveness.

3. The paragraph below lacks linking devices. Add appropriate transitions or linking words
(e.g., however, furthermore, in addition, therefore) to improve the flow of the paragraph.

Renewable energy sources like solar and wind power are becoming increasingly popular.
These sources are much cleaner than fossil fuels. They have the potential to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions. Renewable energy is not without its challenges. Wind and solar
power are dependent on weather conditions, which can make them unreliable at times.
With continued technological advancements, these issues are likely to be resolved.
4. Read the paragraph below. Identify the sentence(s) that do not contribute to the unity of
the paragraph, i.e., the sentence(s) that introduce an unrelated idea.

Eating a balanced diet is key to maintaining good health. A healthy diet includes a variety
of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Regular exercise also helps improve
overall health and boosts mental well-being. Eating healthy helps maintain a stable weight,
reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and improves energy levels. Additionally, consuming
too much processed food can lead to health problems such as obesity and diabetes.

5. Below are three paragraphs, each following a different pattern of development

(chronological, cause-effect, and compare-contrast). Identify the pattern used in each
paragraph.

Paragraph (a):
The first step in preparing for a job interview is researching the company. Next, you should
practice answering common interview questions. Finally, make sure to dress professionally
and arrive on time. By following these steps, you can present yourself as a well-prepared and
competent candidate.

Paragraph (b):
While both online and in-person learning offer valuable educational experiences, they differ
in significant ways. Online learning provides flexibility and convenience, allowing students
to study from any location. In contrast, in-person learning offers more opportunities for face-
to-face interaction with instructors and peers, which some students find more engaging.

Paragraph (c):
Climate change has caused rising global temperatures, which in turn has led to melting ice
caps and rising sea levels. These environmental changes have severe consequences for
coastal communities, who face an increased risk of flooding and displacement.

6. The paragraph below lacks coherence and unity. Revise the paragraph to improve its flow
and ensure that all sentences contribute to the same main idea.

Technology has revolutionized education in recent years. Schools use various digital tools
to engage students, such as smartboards and online quizzes. The internet has a vast amount
of information, which can sometimes be unreliable. Additionally, teachers can use virtual
classrooms to connect with students remotely, allowing for more flexible learning options.
Modern technology is also present in the medical field, where it has improved patient care.
7. Read each of the following paragraphs carefully and identify which type of paragraph it is.
Also explain why you chose that type by identifying key words or phrases that helped you
determine your answer.

Paragraph (a)
The sunset spread brilliant hues of pink and orange across the horizon, casting a golden glow
over the rippling waves. The sea breeze carried the salty scent of the ocean, while seagulls
glided effortlessly in the sky. The warmth of the sand beneath my feet grounded me in the
moment, as I stood mesmerized by nature’s beauty.

Paragraph (b)
It is essential to recycle plastics in order to protect the environment. When plastics are
discarded improperly, they pollute oceans and harm wildlife. Recycling reduces the amount
of waste in landfills and conserves natural resources. Everyone should make a habit of
recycling to reduce their ecological footprint.

Paragraph (c)
Last summer, I decided to hike Mount Fuji, one of Japan’s most iconic mountains. The
journey was long and arduous, but the view from the top was breathtaking. Along the way,
I met travelers from different countries, sharing stories and encouraging each other to reach
the summit. By the end of the day, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment.

Paragraph (d)
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Standing at 330 meters
tall, it was completed in 1889 and originally intended as a temporary exhibit. Made of
wrought iron, the structure dominates the Paris skyline and attracts millions of visitors each
year. Its design symbolizes the industrial prowess of the 19th century.

Paragraph (e)
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy. During this
process, chlorophyll in plant cells absorbs light, which is then used to convert carbon dioxide
and water into glucose and oxygen. This process is vital for plant growth and provides
oxygen for other living organisms.

Paragraph (f)
Exercise is crucial for maintaining good health. Regular physical activity helps to strengthen
muscles, boost cardiovascular health, and reduce stress. Research shows that people who
exercise frequently are less likely to develop chronic diseases like diabetes or heart disease.
Therefore, making time for daily exercise is essential for a healthier life.
8. Write a paragraph based on the following topic sentence. Make sure your paragraph has
unity, coherence, and sufficient supporting details.
Topic Sentence: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule is crucial for overall well-being.