USE TRANSITIONAL EXPRESSIONS.  Special words and prhases which show the relationships between ideas are the most obvious transitional expressions.  You use them all the time; some of the most familiar are simple connecting words like  but, and , or and for. Others include  however, inasmuch, in spite of all this, on the other hand. Transitional phrases help to  show the internal relationships of words and phrases within sentences, and sentences within paragraphs, but they also show the larger relationships within the whole composition by linking paragraphs and by showing how one idea flows into another.
USE STRUCTURAL LINKAGE. It is not only through the more obvious transitional expressions that unity is gained. Relationships between ideas are often established through your use and repetition of key words and phrases.  But you must be careful not to repeat so much that you oversimplify your writing; simple repetition can be easily overcome, once you realize the importance of varying your phrases.  Stegner avoids the monotony of mere repetition by using synonyms, reference words (such as pronouns) and by rephrasing; notice how "town,"  "community," and "civilization" are used to avoid repetition of one word.

ASSIGNMENT.  Select one of the following topics. Arrive at your controlling idea and state this in a sentence.  Then decide on a method of organization. Finally, write at least 3 paragraphs developing the controlling idea. Be careful to establish transitional elements between sentences and paragraphs.
 

a. the attic-a family history
b. a family reunion
c. the most difficult thing about college
d. what it's like to grow up Adventist (or any other denomination)