Strong body paragraphs
Build strong Task 2 body paragraphs: a clear topic sentence, full explanation, a relevant example and a link back to the question.
In this lesson you will
- Write focused topic sentences
- Develop ideas with explanation and examples
- Avoid listing too many undeveloped points
Learn
Structure: Topic sentence (main idea) → Explanation (why/how, 2–3 sentences) → Example (specific, realistic) → Link (back to your position). About 80–100 words each.
Development beats quantity. One fully explained idea is worth more than four listed ideas. Ask Why? So what? For example? after each sentence.
Examples can be general or hypothetical — you don’t need real statistics: For example, a student who works part-time may… Avoid invented precise statistics that sound unrealistic.
Balanced essays: for ‘discuss both views’, one paragraph per view, then make your own opinion clear (in the thesis, a separate paragraph or both).
Examples
- Topic sentence: The main advantage of learning online is flexibility.
- Explanation: Students can study at times that suit them, which is particularly important for those with jobs or family responsibilities.
- Example: A nurse working night shifts, for instance, could complete lectures during the day.
- Link: Therefore, online learning makes education accessible to many people who would otherwise be excluded.
Vocabulary
topic sentence
the first sentence stating the paragraph’s main idea
develop
explain an idea fully
hypothetical
imagined, possible
relevant
connected to the question
accessible
easy to reach or use
Practice
Which is better?
Writing
Write one full body paragraph (90–110 words) for: “Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programmes. To what extent do you agree?” Use topic sentence, explanation, example and link.
Lesson quiz
About how long is a body paragraph?
Review
Key points
- Topic sentence → explanation → example → link.
- Develop, don’t list.
- Realistic examples.
- Cover all parts of the task.
What you learned
- ✓ I write well-developed body paragraphs.
- ✓ I use relevant examples.
- ✓ I link to my position.