Display a graphic organizer showing the parts of a simple paragraph --- topic sentence or main idea, three or four detail sentences and a concluding sentence. Discuss each part and its purpose. Remind students that all sentences in a paragraph should reflect the main idea.
Display a well-written sample paragraph on chart paper and read it to the class. Tell the students to point out the parts of a complete paragraph. Next, display a paragraph that does not include all the elements and includes an off-topic sentence. Ask the students to find the mistakes. Compare the two paragraphs.
Give each student a graphic organizer like the one on the board. Provide a topic, such as summer vacation. Let students brainstorm possible main ideas, such as a favorite summer vacation, the worst summer vacation or a place they would like to visit on summer vacation.
Use the graphic organizer to plan and write the paragraph on the board as a group. When completed, review the paragraph together to ensure it contains all the necessary parts. If not, correct the paragraph as a group.
Assign another topic for an individual writing assignment. Ask the students to share possible main ideas for the topic. Write ideas on the board.
Instruct the students to write individual paragraphs on the topic, choosing their own main idea. Remind them to check their writing against the graphic organizer to ensure they have a complete paragraph. Also, remind them to use correct capitalization and punctuation.
Review each paragraph with students individually. Give encouragement and suggestions. Let them revise, if needed.
Let the students share their work by reading their own paragraph or another student's work to the class. Display writing assignments on a bulletin board or add to their individual writing folders.