TREE Paragraph Writing Strategy
Paragraph Shrinking
Paragraph Shrinking
Paragraph Shrinking Practice #1
Chad just moved to California last month. As he began to make new friends, he soon discovered that he was the only one of his friends that didn't know how to surf. One day his friend April asked him if he would like to learn. She wanted to teach him. Chad happily agreed and made plans to meet April the next morning for his first lesson.
The most important who or what? __________________________
The most important thing about the who or what? _________________________________________
Write the main idea in 10 words or less. _________________________________________________
Paragraph Shrinking Practice #2
It was the morning of the school play. The students were excited about performing but a little nervous too. Carlos and Ann were especially nervous because they had to wear silly alligator costumes. But, mostly they were worried because Eric, who played the third alligator, wasn't in class yet. The teacher frowned and asked, "Carlos, where is Eric?" Carlos turned to Ann. Ann opened her mouth to speak but no words came out. Suddenly, Eric rushed into the classroom wearing his costume. Everyone laughed. Carlos and Ann sighed happily. Now they knew everything would be ready for their performance.
The most important who or what? __________________________
The most important thing about the who or what? _________________________________________
Write the main idea in 10 words or less. _________________________________________________
Paragraph Shrinking Practice #3
Jana sat in the locker room after gym class. Her head was hung low. Tryouts were going to be held tomorrow for the boys' softball team. Girls were not invited to the tryouts. There was not a girl's softball team. Jana really wanted to play softball. "It's not fair," Jana thought, "that only boys can play on the team."
The most important who or what? __________________________
The most important thing about the who or what? _________________________________________
Write the main idea in 10 words or less. _________________________________________________
