32 / Basics of Good Writing
• A concluding sentence in the last body paragraph ties together the paragraph
as well as the general idea.In the fifth paragraph:
• The reference to the thesis sentence rewords without repeating the thesis.
• Reference is also made to the introductory scenic description, concluding with
an analogy between the uncommon environment and a chain.Note, too, some characteristics about the writing style:
• The method of organization emphasizes the writer’s message. The writer
clearly thinks wildlife preservation to be more important than hunting and
fishing; thus, his last body paragraph deals with bird watching, and his
conclusion carries an ecological message.
• Organization is roughly seasonal, moving from winter (hunting) to spring
(fishing), summer (fishing), and autumn (fishing); references to all-season bird
watching round out the structure.
• In the paragraph on fishing, organization is chronological from evening to
evening.
• In the bird-watching paragraph, the writer follows the birds from spring to
winter (though perhaps only someone familiar with migratory birds would
recognize the organization).
• The writer employs specific, concrete language, including strong verbs.
• Good sentence variety is evident throughout, from three-word sentences to
lengthy, complicated sentences with multiple appositives and subordinate
clauses.
• Figures of speech enhance the quality of the writing. [See figure of speech in
the Glossary.]
• The paper maintains unity throughout, offering only details directly related to
the topic.
• The paper includes dozens of descriptive and factual details to help the reader
“see” the writer’s point of view. [See imagery in the Glossary.]The characteristics and process described here along with the model and analysis
should help you write a dynamic paper. In addition you will want to refer to the sec-
tions describing specific kinds of papers in order to take advantage of the various
methods of development illustrated. [Additional examples of multi-paragraph papers
are to be found throughout Parts II and III.]