This document provides guidance on writing effective paragraphs, including using a strong topic sentence, developing sentences that connect to the topic, and a concluding sentence that ties back to the topic. It also encourages using vivid verbs to bring writing to life, and provides examples of replacing boring verbs with more descriptive alternatives. The document concludes by recommending including real-life examples and summarizing key takeaways and next steps.

1. DESCRIPTIVE WRITINGSECONDARY ONE

2. THE PARAGRAPHTHE TOPIC SENTENCE is the controlling Idea of the paragraph. It must be strong andIt must grab the reader’s attention.

3. DEVELOPING SENTENCESThere should be six to ten developing sentences in a paragraph. These sentences must tie into the topic sentence. Be sure to use vivid verbs and adjectives. Specific nouns are very effective.All the developing sentences should flow into one another and they must all stay connected to the topic sentence.

4. THE CONCLUDING SENTENCEThe concluding sentence should provide a strong ending.It balances the paragraph by tying right back to the idea brought out in the topic sentence.

5. VIVID VERBS Breathe life into your writing! When you use precise verbs and new verbs, your writing takes on new life. Never again this year may you use such boring language as “she said” or “he asked”.These can be replaced by such verbs as:Announce Beg Blurt Chant Gasp RantScream Shriek Whine Argue Bark Snap

6. Vivid Verbs – cont’d.The new verbs were much better. However, there are many more. Add ten more verbs that you can add to your list.Good!Now, let’s find new ways to say “He moved”Or, “She went”. Find twenty more!

7. Real LifeGive an example or real life anecdoteSympathize with the audience’s situation if appropriate

8. What This MeansAdd a strong statement that summarizes how you feel or think about this topicSummarize key points you want your audience to remember

9. Next Steps Summarize any actions required of your audienceSummarize any follow up action items required of you