Topic Sentence Power
Which sentence is the strongest topic sentence?
A) School uniforms are annoying.
B) School uniforms should be required because they reduce peer pressure and improve focus.
C) I wore a uniform once.
D) Uniforms come in many colors.
B
Which sentence does NOT belong?
(1) Teen sleep schedules are biologically delayed.
(2) Lack of sleep affects focus in class.
(3) Many teens like sleeping in on weekends.
(4) Sleep deprivation lowers academic performance.
3
Is this evidence or off-topic?
“A study from the CDC found teens need 8–10 hours of sleep.”
Evidence
What does paragraph unity mean?
All sentences support one main idea (topic sentence).
What is the job of a closing sentence?
To wrap up the paragraph and reinforce the main idea.
What is wrong with this topic sentence?
“Video games are fun and I like pizza and school should start later.”
It includes multiple unrelated ideas and does not clearly state one controlling idea.
What is the “drift” in a paragraph about school lunches that suddenly starts talking about football games?
It shifts off-topic and no longer supports the main idea about school lunches.
Why is this NOT strong evidence for a paragraph about sleep?
“My cousin stays up late and is fine.”
It is anecdotal and not reliable or relevant research evidence.
What happens when a paragraph loses unity?
The reader gets confused and the argument becomes weaker.
Which is the best closing sentence?
A) That is why I like dogs.
B) Therefore, later school start times would improve teen learning and health.
C) Sleep is interesting.
D) I woke up early today.
B