First sentence: Why this is the first line? This paragraph is the first sentence because it asks a question about progress and a better future. It introduces the main topic without giving specific details. This fits the rule of Topic Sentence. It does not use any words that need prior context, so it stands alone. Why other lines are not choosen? The other paragraphs are not chosen because they do not meet the criteria for being independent. For example, Paragraph 2 starts with 'To assume', which is a phrase that needs context. Paragraph 3 uses 'Implicit in this definition', which refers back to a definition not yet given. Paragraph 4 starts with 'Development in the past', which is specific and does not introduce a new idea. Paragraph 5 starts with 'To assume that we know', which also needs context.

Concluding sentence: Why this is the last line? This paragraph is the last sentence because it wraps up the discussion about future generations. It uses the phrase 'is mistaken', which signals a conclusion. It reflects on the main theme of the text, which is about understanding our past and future.

Paragraph pairs:

• Pair 1 (Paragraph 1 → Paragraph 2): Paragraph 2 connects to Paragraph 1 because it explains what sustainable development means. This follows the Broader to Specific Strategy. The first paragraph asks about progress, and the second gives a definition that relates to that progress.
• Pair 2 (Paragraph 2 → Paragraph 3): Paragraph 3 connects to Paragraph 2 because it talks about the idea in the definition from the second paragraph. This follows the Logical Order rule. The second paragraph gives a definition, and the third paragraph questions that definition.
• Pair 3 (Paragraph 3 → Paragraph 4): Paragraph 4 connects to Paragraph 3 because it talks about development in the past. This follows the Cause and Effect Relationship rule. The third paragraph questions the old pattern of development, and the fourth paragraph explains how that pattern was driven by growth.
• Pair 4 (Paragraph 4 → Paragraph 5): Paragraph 5 connects to Paragraph 4 because it discusses the future needs based on past development. This follows the Same Theme rule. The fourth paragraph talks about past growth, and the fifth paragraph warns about assuming we know future needs.