Paragraph Format 1: Example

The first type of paragraph to look at is the "example" format. The idea is to build a paragraph using a series of examples that fit under a main topic. If you remember the last lesson, there are two patterns that can be used for a paragraph.

In the example format, the two patterns would look like this:

First Pattern

• Topic Sentence
• Six Examples
• Conclusion

Sample 1:

Topic Sentence: What Pokemon you choose for a battle depends upon what kind of Pokemon he will be battling.
Example 1: A Pikachu is an electric pokemon and would be good against a water type Pokemon, since electricity is conducted by water.
(give several more examples).
Conclusion: All in all, if you want to win Pokemon battles you would be well advised to select your type with care.

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The second type looks like this:

Sample 2

Topic Sentence
3 examples, with an elaboration of each example.
Conclusion

Topic Sentence: What Pokemon you choose for a battle depends upon what kind of Pokemon he will be battling.
Example 1: A Pikachu is an electric Pokemon and they are weak against rock types. Elaboration: The thundershock attack a Pikachu would be likely to use would have little effect against an Onyx.

etc

Of course, this seems very artificial. But if you look back at the Tolkien paragraph, you will see that writers can use this basic format, with variations, and produce something with a very good effect. Lists have a cumulative effect of adding weight to your original point through a combination of variety and repetition. One way you see them used is in epic "catalogues".

Go on to NEXT section: Example of an Example