A paragraph is a group of sentences that are all about one topic. It is easy to spot a paragraph because the first line is usually indented. That means it is set farther from the left margin than the rest of the text. Paragraphs can give information, or facts, about the topic. They can also express an opinion, or the writer's beliefs about that topic.

To find the beginning of a paragraph, laok for

A a fact

B an opinion

C an indented line

D a belief about the topic

Read the paragraph that Lucas is planning to include in his narrative essay.

Running is my life. Beginning last summer I practiced everyday from the early break of dawn until the heat of the midday sun forced me to take a break. Sipping from my bottle of icy water to keep myself hydrated, I dreamed about running a mile in under ten minutes to complete in the statewide race.

Is it wrong to begin your introduction paragraph with your thesis statement?

A. You must NEVER begin your introduction paragraph with your thesis statement!

B. You MUST ALWAYS begin your introduction paragraph with your thesis statement.

C. It is not wrong, but it is not as effective as putting it near the end of your introduction.