Examine well-written and poorly written paragraphs with fourth grade students. Allow them to use a rubric for paragraph construction to "grade" the pieces. Teach them to look for aspects such as a clear topic sentence, detail or evidence sentences, logical presentation and transitions, mechanics and spelling, and a clear closing.
Present students with sentences that would make a paragraph if put together. Identify the topic sentence, the closing sentence and the supporting sentences. Have students assemble sound paragraphs from given sentences. Include cue words such as "first," "next" and "then" for beginning students. Some fourth grade students may learn to assemble paragraphs without the transition words.
Present fourth graders with a choice of two or three engaging topics. Have them brainstorm ideas about content for paragraphs on those topics. Remind them to consider different types of content, such as details, explanations, sequences or proof.
Have the students write a topic sentence for the paragraph and choose at least three brainstormed ideas that fit with the chosen topic sentence. Evaluate their choices based on the amount of connection between the topic sentence and the ideas chosen for inclusion.
Have students copy the topic sentence, then create sentences to include a minimum of three brainstormed ideas chosen in the previous step. Assist the fourth graders in developing a summary statement or conclusion if appropriate. Remind students to proofread the paragraph and make necessary corrections.