Headlines vs Topic Sentences
True or False: “Dog wins talent show” is a headline, not a topic sentence.
True – Headlines are catchy but lack academic focus.
What is the role of background information in a paragraph?
To provide context before evidence. – Helps readers understand the topic.
Which is NOT a feature of a topic sentence: limiting scope, guiding the writer, or providing detailed evidence?
Providing detailed evidence. – Evidence belongs later.
Topic sentence: “Online shopping has transformed consumer habits.” → Give one piece of evidence.
Consumers now compare prices instantly across multiple platforms. – Specific support.
Paraphrase: “Skills related to cooking are valuable.”
Example Answer: Cooking skills are valuable. – Concise noun phrase.
Rewrite this headline into a topic sentence: “Smartphones replace alarm clocks.”
EXAMPLE ANSWER: Smartphones are increasingly replacing traditional alarm clocks in daily routines. – Clear and limited.
Which definition best describes a paragraph?
A unit of meaning with a topic sentence and supporting evidence. – Complete structure.
Why should a topic sentence be specific?
Specific sentences keep the paragraph focused. – Prevents vague writing.
Why is evidence necessary in a paragraph?
It proves the claim made in the topic sentence. – Adds credibility
Replace “culture of how to behave online.”
Answer: Online culture. – Short and precise.
Why is “University students rely heavily on food delivery apps for convenience” a topic sentence?
It introduces a focused idea and sets up evidence. – Academic and specific.
Why should a paragraph include examples?
Examples make abstract ideas concrete. – Improves clarity.
Example of a weak topic sentence: “Sports are fun.” Improve it.
EXAMPLE Answer: “Team sports improve physical health and social skills among young people.” – Clear and limited.
Which is stronger evidence: “Many people use apps” or “A 2024 survey showed 78% of adults use shopping apps”?
The survey statistic. – Specific and measurable.
Why are noun + noun phrases common in academic writing?
Answer: They condense complex ideas into fewer words. – Efficient and clear.
Give one reason why headlines are unsuitable for essays.
They don’t outline or limit discussion. – Essays need clarity and scope.
Where is the topic sentence usually placed?
At the beginning. – Guides the reader.
How does a topic sentence act like a “map”?
It shows what the paragraph will cover. – Guides both writer and reader.
Provide supporting evidence for: “Streaming services have changed television viewing.”
EXAMPLE Answer: Viewers can now watch shows on-demand instead of fixed schedules. – Concrete example.
Create a noun + noun phrase for “the system of learning through the internet.”
EXAMPLE Answer: Online learning system. – Compact and academic.
Change this headline into a topic sentence: “Cities embrace bike-sharing.”
EXAMPLE Answer: Many cities are adopting bike-sharing programs to reduce traffic and pollution. – Academic and explanatory.
Why is a conclusion useful in a paragraph?
It reinforces the main idea. – Provides closure.
Why is limiting scope important in academic writing?
It prevents the paragraph from becoming too broad. – Keeps arguments manageable.
Why should evidence be varied (examples, reasons, statistics)?
Different types of evidence strengthen the argument. – Shows depth.
Give a noun + noun phrase for “communication through video platforms.”
Video communication. – Concise and formal.