Lincoln-Way Style!At Lincoln-Way we have a formula for

successful writing that you will be using in every English class.

This formula gives you:

Clear directions for how to organize every paragraph

Clear expectations as to what the teacher wants

One SOLID Lincoln-Way Paragraph looks like this: 1. Topic Sentence

2. First Assertion

3. First Evidence

4. First Elaboration

5. Second Assertion (including transition word)

6. Second Evidence

7. Second Elaboration

8. Clincher Sentence

A Topic Sentence is:

The first sentence of a paragraph – it states one main point (argument) for the paragraph

connects the main point of the paragraph with the main point of the whole paper (thesis statement)

There is 1 topic sentence per paragraph

What is an Assertion?

An Assertion:

•States one clear REASON the topic sentence is true

•Cannot be the exact same statement as the topic sentence

•You must be able to prove that it is true!!

What is Evidence?

Evidence:

•Proves that the assertion is true

•Offers DATA (specific information!)

•Can NEVER EVER be the same statement as the assertion!!!

• For example: If your assertion claims that the sky is blue, your evidence cannot be the following: “According to Mr. Paulson the sky is blue.” Repeating something twice doesn’t prove it.

What is an Elaboration?An Elaboration:

•Explains WHY your evidence proves your assertion•Uses YOUR OWN WORDS to:

• explain what the Evidence has proven but does NOT repeat the Evidence

• explain how the Evidence proves the Assertion • explain how the Evidence proves the Topic

Sentence and Thesis Statement

• Each elaboration is AT LEAST 3-5 sentences!!

What is the Transition Word?The transition word indicates that you’re moving

from one idea to another.

Some examples include:

•“Also”

•“In addition”

•“Furthermore”

•“Another”

The transition word will be

located in the 2nd Assertion.

“Toto – I don’t think we’re in the 1st assertion anymore!”

What is the Clincher Sentence?The clincher is the final sentence of every

paragraph and it serves 2 purposes:

1. Restate (with different wording) your topic sentence

2. Remind the reader (breifly) what your 2 assertions were