Paragraph terms (word for word)

Topic Sentence

A direct statement of the main idea of the paragraph

Unity

All the elements in a paragraph or essay contributing to developing a single idea or thesis

Paragraph

Series of sentences unified by a controlling idea that discusses a single topic

Minor Support

Statement which explains the major support in terms of the controlling idea

Major Support

Statement which is a direct and definite explanation of the controlling idea stated in the topic sentence

Development

The elaboration of an idea through organized discussion supported by examples, details, and other information

Clincher Sentence

the last sentence in a paragraph where the writer wraps everything up and connects back to the topic sentencd

exposition

writing in which the goal is to clarify or explain in order to inform the reader