The "Four Square" Writing Method
You can write properly structured paragraphs with a topic sentence and conclusion using a simple graphic organizer – "the four-square." With further practice, you will learn to write well-developed compositions of five or more paragraphs, complete with introductory and concluding paragraphs.
Step 1: Given a writing topic/ prompt, BRAINSTORM three supporting ideas and write a concluding sentence- Once you have formulated your position into a topic sentence, brainstorm three supporting ideas onto the graphic organizer. The four square organizer looks like this:
The main idea (topic sentence) is placed in the center box of the four square (box 1). Boxes 2, 3, and 4 are used for supporting ideas. The lower right box (box 5) is used to build a summary or concluding sentence. (This "wrap-up" sentence encompasses all the ideas developed in the four square, and is the basis of developing good introductory and concluding paragraphs in the essay.)
Step 2: WRITE Three supporting ideas and a concluding sentence- Now the center box will contain a complete sentence (topic sentence based on prompt), and boxes 2, 3, and 4 will contain supporting ideas (reasons, examples, or explanations) that prove box 1 true. These ideas must be all different from one another, real, and not simple opinions.
Step 3: (The writing is now taken off the organizer and put into paragraph form.)
4 Square + 3: Adding more details- Now these "supporting ideas" (reasons, examples, or explanations) need further development by adding supporting details in boxes 2, 3, and 4. Adding detail and support can be difficult since you may not be accustomed to elaborating. You will be challenged to " strain your brains." At this time it is important to remember that there may not be a repetition anywhere on the four-square.
4 Square + 3 + C: Adding connecting words to provide transition between thoughts- By now you are developing your thesis (box 1) into three reasons, examples or explanations and supporting elaboration (boxes 2, 3, and 4). Connecting (transition) words are now needed to provide for smooth transition and reading between what will become paragraphs.
4 Square + 3 + C + V: Incorporating vivid language into writing- This step helps you develop personal writing style by using carefully chosen specific words to provide sensory details and imagery for the reader. Your goal is to show the reader, not just tell the reader. You can list several words under each detail in the organizer and later decide which ones to use. Addition of vivid language furthers elaboration and enhances maturity of writing. Building these descriptions prepares the writer for longer and more complex compositions.
Now all that is left is to take your writing and develop the 5-paragraph essay; even the introduction and conclusion are taken from the organizer!