Section

Paragraphs (SPO)

Strategy

Blank Single-Paragraph Outlines (SPO)

Grades K-2 Grades 3-12
The SPO is used across grades to teach students how to plan for a single paragraph. It provides a clear structure, helps students stay on topic, reduces repetition, and reinforces content knowledge. A variety of templates are available—from completely blank outlines to versions that include prompts or versions that include prompts for purpose, topic, and audience. Within the Hochman Method, a sequence of scaffolding activities builds skills step by step, so students can eventually create an SPO independently. Teachers should explicitly teach these scaffolds before expecting students to outline on their own.