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Essay / Paragraph, grammar, grammatical errors and grammar...
Lunsford and Robert (1995: 116) say that a paragraph is defined as “a group of sentences or a single sentence which forms a unit”. We can understand that a paragraph is the combination of sentences or a single sentence which supports only one main idea. Each paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that expresses the main idea of a paragraph. Next, supporting sentences relating to the topic sentence and its controlling ideas with specific examples and detailed explanations should be presented. Finally, a final sentence reaffirming the central idea is given at the end of the paragraph. According to Rosen and Laurence (1997: 119), an effective paragraph must contain four essential elements: a topic sentence, unity, coherence and sufficient development. To be more specific, all sentences in a paragraph should refer to the main idea of the document which maintains a coherent flow. Additionally, sentences should be organized logically and precisely. A topic sentence is considered the most essential part of a paragraph that states the main idea of a paragraph. Without a topic sentence, it is difficult for readers to control the entire opinion being conveyed. Additionally, each idea discussed in the paragraph should be adequately explained and supported with evidence and details to explain the document control.