Lesson 1 of 5
Paragraphs
Lesson #1: Paragraphs
We communicate with words, sentences, and paragraphs. In this set of Lessons we are concerned with paragraphs which means we are focused on facts or opinions that require explanation. Well-formed paragraphs contain one statement (the topic sentence) along with a number of supporting sentences of explanation. The paragraph appears as a series of sentences; each plays a role. Selecting a main idea is a skill of identifying the primary statement and recognizing the other sentences as further explaining it.
Given a paragraph, you need to separate its sentences into two categories:
- One sentence that states an idea or opinion, and
- All other sentences that explain or describe that idea or opinion.
The single sentence is the Main Idea of the paragraph.
For this Lesson, begin by reading the following paragraph.
The Bill of Rights is a prized portion of the United States Constitution. It is the first ten amendments of that document. The contents of The Bill of Rights were so important that they were attached to the Constitution before the 13 colonies would approve it. As examples of the content contained in the Bill of Rights , the First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom of the press. Much has been changed in America the past 225 years, but the Bill of Rights today is the same as written in 1791.
For Lesson #1, Find the Main Idea of the paragraph above.
You are finished with Lesson #1. Finding the main idea of a paragraph is a basic skill needed in academic tasks. Think for a couple of days about your ability to find the main idea of a paragraph. We’ll discuss ways of finding and using main ideas when you return.
Reflection responses are saved on this device as you type. This demo does not send them to a server.
Check your understanding
Main idea or supporting detail?
Read the explanation
The first sentence introduces the paragraph’s central idea. The other sentences explain its history and give examples that support that idea.