A well-constructed example paragraph includes a topic sentence, detailed support like facts, statistics, or examples, and analysis that explains the effect of the described technical elements. Peer reviews suggest that paragraphs need clear topic sentences, proper citation of quotes, and development beyond just examples.
In constructing paragraphs within reports, especially those developed with examples, certain components are critical. A topic sentence is essential as it introduces the main idea of the paragraph. Following this, supporting evidence, which may include facts, statistics, or examples, bolsters this main idea. In the report by student John Zwick on mental health of soldiers deployed during wartime, the use of examples from three sources is mentioned.
However, peer review comments indicate that the example paragraph needs more than a single sentence to be effective. It should include a clear topic sentence and subsequent development that elaborates the topic with sufficient detail and analysis. This development often involves descriptions, analyses of causes and effects, or comparisons and contrasts to enrich the paragraph's content.
When integrating quotes, proper citation is necessary to attribute the sources, and the analysis should reflect a clear, vivid, and technical description, moving beyond that into an explanation of the effects of the technical elements. Concluding the paragraph involves drawing conclusions about the evidence presented and relating it back to the topic sentence, suggesting future directions to consider.
The peer review comment also highlights the importance of integrating quotations properly and the need for a paragraph to have both a well-defined topic sentence and development beyond just an example. It also suggests that paragraphs be structured to support the main point with adequate details and evidence, and that they reflect the point-evidence-analysis pattern.
The probable question may be:
What components constitute the comments within an example paragraph?