SEVEN STEP[1] PARAGRAPH STRUCTURE
Step	Purpose/explanation
1. Topic Sentence – general.	Make a general assertion. Break the topic into two 2 sentences rather than have one long and convoluted sentence. Preferably the topic should have two components. (see below for reason)
2.  Extension of the topic – general.
3. First specific point. (Explain clearly & fully.)	Support your general assertion in your own words.
4. Provide specific evidence.	Illustrate and validate your first key point. (quote)
5. Second specific point[2]. (Explain clearly & fully.)	Further support your general assertion in your own words. This is why the topic should have two elements.
6. More specific evidence.	Illustrate and validate your first key point. (quote)
7. Conclusion	Draw together the main idea you have explored and link to next paragraph.

---

[1] This is a seven step paragraph structure, NOT a seven sentence structure. You may need more than one sentence for any step.

[2] Depending on what you are trying to achieve, it may be necessary to include more specific assertions which, in turn, are illustrated and validated by specific evidence.