TOPIC SENTENCE ANATOMY
What two essential parts must every complete topic sentence contain?
A subject (topic) and a controlling idea.
Which goal of supporting sentences is used here: "Creaking doors and damp fog created a chilling atmosphere"?
Describe (using sensory details).
What strategy helps a writer generate raw details from a topic sentence before drafting?
The Wh-Question Strategy (turning the controlling idea into a Why?, How?, or What? question).
What is "paragraph unity"?
When every supporting sentence relates directly to the controlling idea in the topic sentence.
What punctuation mark MUST follow transition adverbs like "First," "In addition," or "For example"?
A comma (,).
True or False: A strong topic sentence should be a pure, indisputable fact like "Water freezes at 0°C."
False. (It needs a developable controlling idea, not a pure fact).
Which goal is used here: "Exercise releases endorphins, which reduce anxiety during exam stress"?
Provide Facts (or Explain).
If your topic sentence is "Cell phones create major obstacles in class," what Wh-question should you ask?
"HOW (or WHY) do cell phones create obstacles to learning?"
In mystery writing and grammar, what do we call an off-topic sentence that distracts the reader?
A "red herring" (or off-topic sentence).
In the hamburger model, what part represents the concluding sentence?
The bottom bun (it seals the paragraph and holds all the content inside).
In the "hamburger" paragraph model, which part of the hamburger represents the topic sentence?
The top bun (it introduces the main topic and holds the paragraph together).
Which goal is used here: "For instance, investigators check author credentials on cold case reports"?
Give Examples.
How many supporting sentences typically make up the middle body of a standard paragraph?
3 to 5 supporting sentences.
In a paragraph investigating a cold case, why is "Cafeterias should serve healthier chicken" incorrect?
It breaks paragraph unity because it has nothing to do with cold case investigations.
Does an integrated transition phrase like "The first clue is that..." require a comma after "that"?
No.
Why is the statement "Social media is popular" considered a weak topic sentence?
It is too broad and lacks a specific controlling idea.
Name at least 4 of the 6 main goals/functions of supporting sentences.
Explain, Describe, Give Reasons, Provide Facts, Give Examples, Define.
If a Wh-question asks "WHY do children like Orlando?", what type of details belong in your list?
Specific reasons/attractions (e.g., theme parks, outdoor snow activities, entertainment).
What simple test can a writer use to verify if a detail belongs in their paragraph?
Test if the detail directly answers the paragraph's Wh-question.
What are two effective ways to craft a concluding sentence?
Restate the controlling idea (paraphrase), summarize main points, or offer a final warning/thought.
What complex sentence structure helps narrow a topic sentence? (Name a subordinating conjunction used to start one).
A complex sentence starting with "Although," "Because," "When," or "If."
What is the primary mission of all supporting sentences in a paragraph?
To expand, prove, and develop the controlling idea in the topic sentence.
How does answering a Wh-question before writing prevent writer's block in a novel scene or essay?
It provides a targeted list of evidence/clues to write about step-by-step.
What is the difference between a Main Supporting Sentence (MSS) and a Sub-Supporting Sentence (SSS)?
An MSS introduces a main clue/reason; an SSS adds specific sub-details, quotes, or examples to explain the MSS.
What is the biggest error a writer can make in a concluding sentence?
Introducing a brand-new fact or topic that was never mentioned in the paragraph.