This lesson illustrates to students how to write “telling” versus “showing” paragraphs. That is, student are shown the difference between a paragraph that merely states reasons rather than develops them through explanation, examples, or specific details.

The lesson proceeds as follows after discussing components of a paragraph from previous lessons:

1.  Project on the screen the first model of a “telling” paragraph.
2.  Read the paragraph aloud and then ask students to complete the comprehension questions following.
3. They should notice they cannot supply the details.
4. Then read the “showing” paragraph.
5. Ask students to complete the comprehension questions,which they should now be able to do.
6. Discuss with students the differences and use of Wh-questions when writing to develop a topic.  << Showing vs. Telling Paragraph >>

Francesca Hulin

Hi, I’ve been a professor of ESL at Yuba College since 2003.  In that capacity, I teach our advanced writing courses and VESL-related courses; i.e., Computer Skills for ESL and English for Employment.  Prior to Yuba College, I have lived and taught in The Czech Republic, Turkey, Kuwait, and England.  My interests are sports such as skiing, hiking, biking, and traveling for long periods to anywhere I have not been.