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Writing a Clear Paragraph

Point, evidence and explanation for a Grade/Year 7 or 8 classroom, with reading, subject language, speaking and writing.

Grade/Year 7 & 845–60 minutesPrintable

Teacher lesson: Read the short text aloud and model the first task. Students can plan in a language they know well before speaking or writing in English. Use all twelve panels or adjust the pace for your learners.

Teacher Answers Back to Teacher Lessons

1Reading

A student plans and writes a paragraph with teacher support — Illustration: Writing a clear paragraph.

Before you read:

Look at the title. What do you know about point, evidence and explanation? Tell a partner one idea.

The class is discussing whether schools should have quiet reading time. Sam writes, ‘Quiet reading time helps students focus.’ That is a clear point, but the paragraph needs more support. Sam adds evidence from a class survey: most students said they could concentrate better after reading quietly. Then Sam explains how a calm start can help students move into their next lesson. Finally, Sam rereads the paragraph to check that every sentence connects to the same idea. The paragraph now has a point, evidence and an explanation.

2Vocabulary

Words: point · evidence · explanation

Write a short meaning or example. You may use a language you know well first.

point –

evidence –

explanation –

3Comprehension

4Language Focus

Use these sentence starters. Change the words to fit your idea.

I think because .

For example, . This shows .

Write one sentence of your own.

5Listen and Note

Listen as your teacher reads the text again. Note two key ideas or facts.

First idea:

Second idea:

Compare your notes with a partner.

6Speaking

Tell a partner one opinion about school and one reason for it.

Use a sentence starter from panel 4. Ask your partner one follow-up question.

Useful questions: “Could you explain that?” “Why do you think so?”

7Try It

Use this skill: How might you use point, evidence and explanation in another lesson or everyday situation? Give one example and explain it to a partner.

Draw a quick plan or write three key words before you speak.

8Writing

Write a paragraph: “Working with a partner can help learning.” Include a point, evidence or example, and an explanation.

Plan in a language you know well if it helps. Then write your answer in English.

9Word Study

Choose the correct words from this lesson’s reading.

Word bank: point · evidence

A states your idea. helps support it.

10Sentence Builder

Put these words in the right order. Check the capital letter and punctuation.

supports / the point / My evidence / .

11School English

Your partner says quiet reading helps. Ask for evidence.

Write a polite question or response you could use at school. Then say it to a partner.

12Exit Reflection ✓

Take a few minutes to reflect.

1. One useful word I learnt in this lesson:

2. One thing I can do in class:

3. One question I still have: