Research Writing: Build the Body

Lesson Plan - Get It!

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What Goes in the Body?

Each body paragraph should support your thesis with facts, examples, and reasoning. Think of it like constructing a sandwich.

Start with a topic sentence (the top slice of bread) that tells what the paragraph is about.

Add supporting details from your research (the filling) and explain how they connect to your main point.

Wrap it up with a strong closing sentence (the bottom slice of bread) that leads to the next paragraph.

Use transitions like "in addition," "for example," or "however" to keep your ideas flowing smoothly from one paragraph to the next.

Show, Don't Just Tell

• Telling
• "Chlorophyll absorbs sunlight and makes grass green."

• Showing
• "Chlorophyll, the pigment found in plants, captures sunlight and powers a chemical reaction. This process gives grass its bright green color."

• See the difference?

When you show instead of tell, you give the reader a clearer picture and build credibility.

Paragraph Structure Checklist

Use this six-part strategy to keep each paragraph strong.

1. Start with a transition + topic sentence.

2. Add explanation to show how this relates to your thesis.

3. Insert research (quotes, paraphrased ideas, or summaries).

4. Explain the research—don't just drop it in and move on.

5. Add more evidence if needed.

6. Wrap up the idea or lead into the next paragraph.

Use In-Text Citations the Right Way

Whenever you quote, paraphrase, or summarize someone else's ideas, you must include an in-text citation. For MLA format, that usually looks like this.

• Direct quote
• "Photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells" (Johnson 45).

• Paraphrase
• Plants turn sunlight into energy through a process called photosynthesis, which takes place in their chloroplasts (Johnson 45).

The author's last name and the page number go in parentheses after the sentence—no commas, no "pg."—just the name and number.

If there's no author, use the article title instead.

What Not to Do

Avoid these common mistakes.

Don't copy-paste research without changing the wording.

Don't stack quotes without explaining them.

Don't forget to introduce or explain your quotes.

Don't leave out in-text citations—you must credit every source.

Keep Your Style Clear and Confident

Remember, this is your paper.

You're the guide, and your research is the supporting cast. Use your voice, explain ideas in your own words, and bring your reader along for the journey.

You're Almost There!

Writing the body is a big step, but you're not doing it alone—you've got tools, tips, and your past work to support you.

Now, head to the Got It? section to try out your writing skills with quizzes and activities to help you build strong, clear, well-organized paragraphs.