What is “Supporting Sentence/evidence” in a Body Paragraph?
Supporting sentence refers to a sentence that provides information and facts to validate and support the main point or claim presented in a body paragraph.
It provides specific details and specific support for the argument being presented. Thus, it helps convince the readers of the validity and credibility of the perspective of the position of the writer. It comprises one or more sentences and usually occurs after the topic sentence.
How to Identify Supporting Sentence
Identifying supporting sentence requires a careful analysis of the information presented in the body paragraph. When you are able to identify supporting evidence, you find it easy to incorporate good supporting evidence in the body paragraphs of your essay. Here are some steps to help identify supporting sentence/sentences:
- Spot Main Idea: The topic sentence of a paragraph generally presents the main idea or argument. Supporting evidence relates directly to this main idea.
- Look for Specific Details: Supporting sentence/sentences often consists of specific information, data, examples, or facts. Pay attention to these details that provide more context.
- Check for References or citations: If the writer includes references or citations within the paragraph, these serve as supporting evidence.
- Consider Logical Connection: Supporting sentence/sentences should be relevant and directly related to the main point. Look for information that logically supports the argument.
Features of Support Sentences in a Body Paragraph
| Feature | Detail | Example |
| Relevance | Supporting sentence/sentences should be directly related to the main idea or claim presented in the paragraph. | In a paragraph discussing the theme of love in Romeo and Juliet, a quote from the play that highlights the passionate love between the two main characters is used as supporting evidence. |
| Specificity | It should consist of specific details, examples, facts, or data that provide clarity and strengthen the argument. | In a paragraph analyzing symbolism in The Great Gatsby, specific references to the green light at the end of Daisy’s dock and its representation of Gatsby’s hopes and dreams are provided as supporting evidence. |
| Credibility | Supporting sentence/sentences should come from reliable and reputable sources, such as research studies, expert opinions, or credible publications. | When discussing the historical context of To Kill a Mockingbird, supporting evidence may include references to scholarly articles or books written by renowned historians. |
| Varied Types | Different types of supporting sentence/sentences can be used, such as empirical evidence, anecdotal evidence, expert testimony, or logical reasoning, depending on the nature of the argument. | In a paragraph analyzing the use of foreshadowing in Macbeth, both instances of prophecies made by the witches and the ghostly visions experienced by Macbeth are used as supporting evidence. |
| Consistency | The supporting sentence / sentences should align with the overall tone and argument of the paragraph, maintaining a coherent and cohesive flow of ideas. | In a paragraph discussing the theme of identity in The Catcher in the Rye, supporting evidence should consistently reinforce the idea of Holden Caulfield’s search for authenticity and individuality. |
| Integration | The supporting sentence/sentences should be seamlessly integrated into the paragraph, using appropriate transitions and linking phrases to connect it with the main point. | An analysis of symbolism in The Scarlet Letter may include the seamless integration of a quote describing the significance of the red letter “A” on Hester Prynne’s chest. |
| Depth and Detail | It should provide sufficient depth and detail to fully support and develop the main idea, leaving no room for ambiguity or confusion. | In a paragraph exploring the theme of power in George Orwell’s 1984, detailed examples of the Party’s manipulation of language, surveillance systems, and thought control are used as supporting evidence. |
| Balance | Supporting sentence/sentences should be balanced and fair, presenting a well-rounded view and addressing counterarguments when necessary. | When discussing the moral choices of characters in To Kill a Mockingbird, the supporting evidence should address both the virtuous actions of Atticus Finch and the prejudiced behavior of some townspeople. |
| Clarity and Conciseness | Support sentences should be clear, concise, and easy to understand, avoiding unnecessary jargon or complexity. | When analyzing poetic devices in a poem by Robert Frost, the supporting evidence should provide clear explanations and examples of the specific techniques employed, such as metaphors or alliteration. |
| Proper Citation | If external sources are used, proper citations should be provided to give credit to the original authors and avoid plagiarism. | Any direct quotes or paraphrased information from literary criticism or scholarly articles should be appropriately cited using the required citation style. |
Functions of Supporting Sentence / Sentences:
- Provide evidence
- Validate the argument
- Add credibility
- Enhance persuasiveness
- Expand the main point
- Address counterarguments
- Create coherence and flow
- Promote critical thinking
- Summarize and transition
Structure of Supporting Sentence / Sentences in a Body Paragraph
| Type | Example from a Literary Body Paragraph |
| Supporting Sentence 1 | The description of the abandoned mansion in Wuthering Heights sets a dark and eerie atmosphere: “The place was filled with sunshine, and the door stood wide open; but nobody seemed at hand.” |
| Explanation/Analysis 1 | This imagery of the empty and ominous mansion serves as a reflection of the turbulent and mysterious nature of the characters’ lives, emphasizing the theme of isolation and the haunting effects of past actions. It effectively establishes the gothic tone and foreshadows the tumultuous events to come. |
| Supporting Sentence 2 | The use of simile in Langston Hughes’ poem “Harlem” compares the deferred dream to a “raisin in the sun” that “dries up like a raisin in the sun.” |
| Explanation/Analysis 2 | This simile conveys the frustration and loss associated with unfulfilled dreams, highlighting the impact of societal constraints and racial inequality on individual aspirations. It evokes a sense of withering and stagnation, urging readers to reflect on the consequences of deferred dreams. |
| Transitions | Furthermore, Moreover, Additionally, In addition to |
| Supporting Sentence 3 (optional) | In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch’s decision to defend Tom Robinson, a black man wrongly accused of rape, showcases his unwavering moral compass and commitment to justice. |
| Explanation/Analysis 3 (optional) | Atticus’ courageous act challenges the prevailing racial prejudices of Maycomb society and exposes the hypocrisy and injustice ingrained within it. His unwavering belief in fairness and equality serves as a catalyst for moral introspection and transformation within the novel. |
Process of Writing Supporting Sentences
- Identify the main point
- Research and gather evidence
- Select the strongest evidence
- Link evidence to the main point
- Provide specific details
- Explain the evidence
- Ensure coherence and organization
- Check for clarity and relevance
- Revise and edit
- Cite sources
- Review the overall paragraph
Example of Supporting Sentences in a Body Paragraph
(Topic Sentence) George Orwell’s dystopian novel, 1984, utilizes oppressive imagery to convey the bleak and totalitarian society in which the protagonist, Winston Smith, resides. One notable instance of this is the description of the Party’s slogan, “WAR IS PEACE, FREEDOM IS SLAVERY, IGNORANCE IS STRENGTH” (Orwell 4). This slogan represents the Party’s manipulation of language aimed to control and distort the truth, enforcing a twisted form of reality upon its citizens. Furthermore, Orwell employs symbolism through the ubiquitous presence of Big Brother’s face plastered on posters throughout Oceania. Orwell shows this image as having “eyes that follow you about when you move” (Orwell 3), instilling a sense of constant surveillance and paranoia in the inhabitants of this dystopia. Also, the use of irony is apparent in the character of Winston’s neighbor, Parsons, who fiercely supports the Party despite being a victim of its oppressive regime. Orwell shows him by saying “Parsons was a fellow employee at the Ministry of Truth. He was a fattish but active man… he was the kind of dull, unquestioning adherent who ensured the survival of the Party” (Orwell 11). This ironic portrayal showcases the Party’s ability to manipulate and subdue the citizens, turning them into instruments of their self-oppression. (Concluding Sentence)
