Exploring Writing 2nd Edition by John Langan

Exercise 43

The following essay needs specific details to back up the ideas in the supporting paragraphs. Using the spaces provided, add a sentence or two of clear, convincing details for each supporting idea. This activity will give you practice at supplying specific details and an initial feel for writing an essay.
Life without Television
Introduction
When my family's only television set went to the repair shop the other day, my parents, my sister, and I thought we would have a terrible week. How could we get through the long evenings in such a quiet house What would it be like without all the shows to keep us company We soon realized, though, that living without television for a while was a stroke of good fortune. It became easy for each of us to enjoy some activities alone, to complete some postponed chores, and to spend rewarding time with each other and friends.
First supporting paragraph
First of all, with no television to compete for our time, we found plenty of hours for personal interests. We all read more that week than we had read during the six months before. ___________________
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We each also enjoyed some hobbies we had ignored for ages.
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In addition, my sister and I both stopped procrastinating with our homework.__________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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Second supporting paragraph
Second, we did chores that had been hanging over our heads for too long. There were many jobs around the house that had needed attention for some time.________________________________________
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We also had a chance to do some long-postponed shopping. _______
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And each of us also did some letter writing or other paperwork that was long overdue.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Third supporting paragraph
Finally, and probably most important, we spent time with each other. Instead of just being in the same room together while we stared at a screen, we actually talked for many pleasant hours.
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Moreover, for the first time in years my family played some games
together. ______________________________________________________
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And because we didn't have to worry about missing this or that show, we had some family friends over on a couple of evenings and spent an enjoyable time with them.____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Conclusion
Once our television set returned, we were not prepared to put it in the attic. But we had a sense of how it can take over our lives if we are not careful. We are now more selective. We turn on the set for our favorite shows, certain sports events, and the news, but we don't leave it running all night. As a result, we find we can enjoy television and still have time left over for other activities and interests.