Graphic Organizer: Hamburger Paragraph

When it comes to teaching paragraph structure, the Hamburger Paragraph Graphic Organizer is a classic for a reason. It’s visual, it’s clear, and it sticks. Just like that perfect grilled burger, this writing tool helps students layer their ideas in a way that makes sense.

What Is the Hamburger Paragraph Organizer?

The hamburger model helps students organize a paragraph into five key parts:

• Top Bun – The topic sentence. It introduces the main idea—what the paragraph is all about.
• Lettuce, Tomato, Patty (and maybe cheese!) – These are the juicy supporting details. Each layer adds depth and backs up the main idea.
• Bottom Bun – The concluding sentence. It wraps up the paragraph and keeps everything held together.

It’s simple, visual, and easy for students to grasp—especially your visual and concrete thinkers.

Why It Works

This organizer isn’t just cute—it’s effective. Here’s why:

• It builds structure. Students who struggle with where to start or how to stay on topic get a clear roadmap.
• It teaches balance. No more paragraphs with five topic sentences and no details—or three facts and no conclusion.
• It’s easy to remember. When kids say, “I forgot how to write a paragraph,” you just smile and say, “Build a burger!”

You’ll start hearing students say things like, “I need one more detail layer,” and it’ll make your writing teacher heart happy.

How to Use It in the Classroom

You can introduce the hamburger paragraph in a mini lesson and model it with a topic the whole class enjoys. Think:

• “Why recess is the best part of school”
• “My favorite season”
• “Dogs vs. cats”

Have students brainstorm the parts of their "burger" together before writing.

Then, give them their own Hamburger Paragraph Organizer to plan and draft. It’s perfect for small group writing support, writing centers, or even as an anchor for independent writing.

Use it again and again across subjects—yes, even in science and social studies!

Want a Copy?

We’ve got ready-to-use Hamburger Paragraph Graphic Organizers just for you. Download them, print them, and get those paragraphs stacked with solid ideas.