Topic Sentences

General

100

Why do we use topic sentences? 

1. We use it to inform the reader about what will be talked about in the paragraph

2. We use it to give a summary of the essay

3. We use it to state the purpose of the entire paper

 

#1

200

Each sentence after the topic sentence… (Answer: #3)

1. Explains another topic

2. Restates the thesis

3. Works to support and improve the idea of the topic sentence

#3

300

Which of the following would be a good topic sentence if I were writing a paragraph about the dangers of pollution? 

1. “Environmental pollution is an incurable disease. It can only be prevented.” (Barry Commoner)

2. Pollution leads to many environmentally harmful factors in society.

3. Kanye West will become the president and stop pollution once and for all.

#2

What To Do

100

What part of the paragraph is the best place to incorporate the topic sentence?

beginning, first sentence

200

What role does the topic sentence play in the paragraph?

serves to introduce the main idea

300

True/False: You can use a quote in your topic sentence to make it more sophisticated.

False

Good/Bad Example

100

"There are numerous reasons for why homework should be banned."

BAD

200

"Additionally utilizing allusions to previous, successful figures and events allows Chavez to develop the ethos and build his claim."

GOOD

300

"With increased opportunities in college comes an increase in financial return for the future; proper background experience will allow students to gain better, high-paying job opportunities."

GOOD