Structural parts of a paragraph

Topic Sentence -TS

The topic sentence provides the main idea or subject of the paragraph, and further

identifies a controlling idea restricting the topic area of discussion. It is the first

sentence in the paragraph. Look at the topic sentence in the sample paragraph

Environmental pollution is having a devastating effect on mankind.

topic controlling idea

The topic of the paragraph is environmental pollution, but this topic is further limited

to a discussion of the devastating effects on mankind

SSuuppppoorrttiningg s Senetnetnecnecse (sa s(S tShe) word ‘suppor t’ indicates) support the topic by providing

points, which develop the idea with an explanation, illustration, reason etc. The two

supporting sentences, which explain the topic sentence about environmental

pollution are

• Firstly, water pollution reduces valuable supplies of fresh, clean water needed

for daily consumption

• Another devastating effect is brought about by air pollution, which turns fresh,

clean air into smoggy, unpleasant smelling air

Developing Sentences-DS

Developing sentences further develop the points in the supporting sentences by

providing more information or an example, a reason, a clarification etc. For example,

the point about water pollution is further developed in the following two developing

sentences

• Most of the pollutants, which enter the water come from industry, sewage

systems, and agriculture

• These include chemicals and harmful wastes from animals and plants

The point about air pollution is further developed in the following sentences

• The result of air pollutants is the harm it has on human health.

• For example, the gases, which are released into the atmosphere can cause

such diseases as emphysema and cancer

Thus the paragraph on environmental pollu tion has the following structure

TS Environmental pollution is having a devastating effect on

mankind. SS1 Firstly, water pollution reduces valuable supplies of

fresh, clean water needed for daily consumption. DS1.1 Most of

the pollutants, which enter the water come from industry, sewage

systems, and agriculture. DS1.2 These include chemicals and

harmful wastes from animals and plants. SS2 Another devastating

effect is brought about by air pollution, which turns fresh, clean air

into smoggy, unpleasant smelling air. DS2.1 The result of air

pollutants is the harm it has on human health. DS2.2 For example,

the gases, which are released into the atmosphere can cause such

diseases as emphysema and cancer