The Basics
What is a topic sentence?
A sentence that tells the reader what a paragraph is mainly about.
"Dogs make great pets. They are loyal and friendly. Many dogs enjoy spending time with their owners."
Dogs make great pets.
Is this a TOPIC SENTENCE or SUPPORTING DETAIL?
"Playing video games can improve problem-solving skills."
Topic Sentence
Supporting Details:
Dogs are loyal.
Dogs enjoy spending time with people.
Which topic sentence fits BEST?
A. Dogs are animals.
B. Dogs make wonderful companions.
B. Dogs make wonderful companions.
Write a topic sentence about your FAVORITE SEASON.
Example Answer: Fall is my favorite season because of the cooler weather and fun outdoor activities.
Where is a topic sentence usually located in a paragraph?
At the beginning of a paragraph, although it can appear elsewhere
"Exercise has many benefits for teenagers. It can reduce stress. It can also improve sleep and increase energy."
Exercise has many benefits for teenagers.
Is this a TOPIC SENTENCE or SUPPORTING DETAIL?
"For example, many games require players to solve difficult puzzles."
Supporting detail
Supporting Details:
Students can borrow books.
Students can research topics.
Students can find quiet places to study.
Which topic sentence fits BEST?
A. Libraries offer helpful resources for students.
B. Reading books is my favorite hobby.
A. Libraries offer helpful resources for students.
Write a topic sentence about SCHOOL LUNCHES.
Remember to include the topic and main idea!
Example Answer: School lunches give students the opportunity to try different foods.
What are the TWO important parts of a topic sentence?
Topic
Main idea
"Students can borrow books at the library. They can also use computers for research. Libraries provide many helpful resources for students."
Libraries provide many helpful resources for students.
Is this a TOPIC SENTENCE or SUPPORTING DETAIL?
"There are several benefits to joining a school club."
Topic Sentence
Supporting Details:
Exercise can reduce stress.
Exercise can improve sleep.
Exercise can increase energy.
Which topic sentence fits BEST?
A. Exercise offers several health benefits.
B. Running can be difficult.
A. Exercise offers several health benefits.
Write a topic sentence about TECHNOLOGY IN SCHOOL.
Example Answer: Technology can make learning easier and more engaging for students.
Identify the topic in this sentence:
"Playing sports helps students stay healthy."
Playing sports.
"Some students enjoy learning through videos. Others prefer hands-on activities. Many students like working in groups. Students have different learning preferences."
Students have different learning preferences.
Topic Sentence: "Participating in after-school activities can help students build friendships."
Which sentence is a supporting detail?
A. After-school activities have many benefits.
B. Students can meet peers who share similar interests.
C. School is an important part of growing up.
Students can meet peers who share similar interests.
Which is the STRONGER topic sentence?
A. Technology is everywhere.
B. Technology helps students learn in different ways.
Explain WHY you chose your answer.
B. Technology helps students learn in different ways.
It introduces a clear main idea that can be explained using supporting details.
Read these supporting details:
Students can meet new people.
Students can learn new skills.
Students can discover new interests.
Write a topic sentence that connects ALL THREE details.
Example Answer: Joining a school club offers students several benefits.
Identify the MAIN IDEA in this sentence:
"Reading books can improve your vocabulary."
Can improve your vocabulary.
"Getting enough sleep helps students succeed in school. Sleep can improve memory and attention. Students who are well-rested may have more energy during class. A consistent bedtime routine can help students get enough rest."
Getting enough sleep helps students succeed in school.
Topic Sentence: "Students should have more opportunities to learn life skills in school."
Create TWO supporting details that connect to this topic sentence.
Possible answers:
Learning how to budget money can help students prepare for adulthood.
Learning how to cook simple meals can help students become more independent.
Supporting Details:
Sports teach students how to work together.
Players learn how to communicate with teammates.
Athletes develop responsibility by attending practices.
Which topic sentence fits BEST?
A. Playing sports is fun.
B. Team sports teach students important life skills.
C. Basketball is a popular sport.
Explain your answer.
B. Team sports teach students important life skills.
All three supporting details describe skills students can develop through sports.
Think of ONE school rule you would change.
Write a strong topic sentence explaining your opinion.
Then provide TWO supporting details that would fit your paragraph.
Topic Sentence: "Schools should allow students to have longer lunch periods."
Supporting Details:
Longer lunch periods would give students more time to eat.
Students would have more opportunities to socialize with friends.