INTRODUCTION - PARAGRAPH 1 -Hook + Introductory sentences -Thesis statement: - Directional Statement:
PARAGRAPH 2 (aka body paragraph)
Topic sentence
Explanation
Examples
Connections
PARAGRAPH 3 (Aka body paragraph 2)
Topic sentence
Explanation
Examples
Connections
PARAGRAPH 4 (aka Body Paragraph 3)
Topic sentence
Explanation
Examples
Connections
CONCLUSION -PARAGRAPH 5
Reiterate Thesis.
Reiterate argument briefly.
Express insight (but do not bring up a new idea) in the concluding sentence.
1. Read the essay.
2. In the introductory paragraph, underline the thesis statement. Box the directional statement.
3. For each body paragraph: - underline the topic sentence. (T) - squiggle line the explanation (E) - parenthesize the evidence (E) - box the connecting sentences (C)
4. In the conclusion, underline the thesis restatement. Box the restatement of the points.
Maintaining physical health is an essential aspect of a satisfying life, and yet it is a great challenge. Our society has never been so busy and yet so physically inactive. Not everyone has the time, the interest or the resources to join a gym. There are alternatives. Yoga is a very good way to condition both the body and the mind. Yoga can be practiced almost anywhere, helps build strength and flexibility and helps develop one's concentration. The practice of yoga can be done almost anywhere. Yoga does require a great deal of space or many special kinds of equipment. Comfortable clothes which move with the body, and floor space that is not slippery are all that are required for yoga. Of course, many people are drawn by the attractive clothing and the interesting props, but they are not necessary. Even a person with the most modest income can safely and properly practice yoga. Ideally, one would attend class, but if lessons are too expensive, there are many excellent video tapes and training manuals to make use of if one is really committed to becoming healthy. This accessibility is what makes yoga such an attractive activity for so many people. If one wants to practice or learn, there are many opportunities to take advantage of. The practice of yoga helps one maintain and develop one's flexibility and physical strength. The asanas, or postures, may look strange, but they are designed to simultaneously build strength and flexibility. Postures are practiced in sequence. Each posture counterbalances the posture before. Each series of asanas is followed by one that provides the opposite stretch. Following the series as they are suggested will offer a complete workout, stretching and strength building in one. As a practitioner works on his or her body, there may be subtle effects that take place in the mind. Physical activity reduces stress, and yoga is no exception. When used as a part of a regular schedule and program, these benefits translate to your daily life. A contented mind and your body make for increased happiness overall. Perhaps most importantly, the practice of yoga helps one develop focus and concentration. In today’s fast-paced world, there is little time to slow down and take things in. In yoga, each breath contains "prana," the subtle life force. It is said that if one is not consciously breathing while practicing yoga, then one is simply stretching. This is because yoga teaches that there is a connection between the breath and the mind. Anxious thoughts lead to irregular breathing. Conscious controlled breathing can actually help calm and focus the mind. In a yogic practice, one learns a number of