Lesson 4: Write Complete Short Paragraphs

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Objective

I can write a short paragraph that starts with a clear topic sentence, gives 2–3 details, and ends with a closing sentence.

Materials

Use finger spaces, correct capitals, and end punctuation.

Mini-lesson — What makes a paragraph?

  1. Topic sentence — Tells the main idea.
  2. Details — 2–3 sentences that explain or give examples.
  3. Closing sentence — Wraps it up (restates the idea).
  4. Use order words: First, Next, Then, Finally.

Guided Practice — Trace key paragraph words

Trace useful words, then write a 3–5 sentence paragraph:

  • Topic sentence: “My favorite place is the park.”
  • Details: “First, I race on the path.” “Next, I feed ducks.”
  • Closing: “The park is fun for my whole family.”

Pick a lesson word below to overlay. Keep letters on the baseline. Use one finger space.

Tracing Pad
Tracing snapshot for print

Drag & Drop — Topic • Details • Closing

Build each sentence. Then check your work. Use spacing and a . at the end.

theparkisMyfavoriteplace.
FirstIraceonthepath.
NextIfeedtheducks.
Finallytheparkisfunformyfamily.
Myhobbyisbuildingwithblocks.
FirstImakeatalltower.
NextIaddabridgebecauseitlookscool.
FinallyIshowmyfamilymybuild.
Recessismyfavoritetimeatschool.
FirstIplaytagwithmyfriends.
NextIalsoswingontheswings.
FinallyIfeelhappywhenrecessends.

Quick Check (15 questions)

1) A topic sentence…

2) Good details should…

3) A closing sentence…

4) Which is an order word?

5) The first sentence should usually be…

6) Choose the best sentence.

7) Which word gives a reason?

8) A detail should…

9) Which set shows order?

10) A good closing will…

11) Which is correct?

12) Details are usually…

13) Choose the best detail:

14) A sentence should be…

15) Before you finish you should…

Assessment (parent/teacher)

Exit ticket (student)

I will practice…

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