1. Unity: Both paragraphs and essays must have a clear and unified focus.
* Paragraph: Each paragraph should revolve around a single main idea, often expressed in a topic sentence.
* Essay: The entire essay should focus on a central argument or thesis statement.
2. Coherence: Both need to flow logically and smoothly.
* Paragraph: Sentences within a paragraph should be connected using transitions, pronoun references, and other techniques to create a clear progression of thought.
* Essay: Paragraphs within an essay should be organized in a logical way, with clear connections between them, often through introductory and concluding sentences.
3. Development: Both require sufficient support and explanation.
* Paragraph: The main idea of a paragraph is elaborated on through evidence, examples, explanations, or other supporting details.
* Essay: The thesis statement of an essay is supported by a series of paragraphs, each providing evidence or analysis to prove the central argument.
4. Structure: Both have a recognizable organizational pattern.
* Paragraph: Often follow a structure like topic sentence, supporting sentences, and concluding sentence.
* Essay: Typically have an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
5. Purpose: Both aim to communicate a message effectively.
* Paragraph: Can provide information, explain a concept, or persuade the reader.
* Essay: Can explore a topic in depth, present an argument, or persuade the reader of a particular viewpoint.
In short, paragraphs and essays are both building blocks of writing that follow similar principles of unity, coherence, development, and purpose, allowing them to effectively communicate ideas to the reader.