topic sentences

 263 Topic Sentences

Topic sentences have two important functions:

They have to introduce a topic and an opinion that the writer will support in his or her paragraph.

They have to limit the topic and the opinion so that only one paragraph is enough to support the idea.

When you write a topic sentence, you must make sure that it mentions a topic and an opinion. It cannot be a fact because facts do not need support. Also, you must be sure that the idea is specific enough that it can be supported by only eight to ten sentences.

  

Choose which of the following topic sentences follow the guidelines of a good topic sentence.

Two years of general education classes is a good idea.

Students have to take two years of general education classes if they want to get a Bachelor’s degree.

General education classes help students choose the major that is best for them.

The topic sentence gives the writer’s attitude/opinion about the topic. In it the writer makes a judgement. Often the topic sentence will include words like: helpful, easy, difficult, exciting, dangerous, disappointing, useful, encourage, deserve, protect, improve… These words help give the writer’s opinion more clearly.

Activity 1: Study the following topic sentences. Underline the topic and circle the controlling idea.

Receiving an F on my report card was a humiliating experience.

When I was child, my grandfather’s garden was a magical place.

One reason I admire Nelson Mandela is that he never gave up.

The first step in learning how to use Canvas is the hardest.

The greatest difference in education between two countries is the number of subjects students must study.

Because a paragraph is a short piece of writing, the topic sentence must be precise. If it is too general, the writer won’t be able to support it with just one paragraph.  Look at this sentence:

         Pollution is a problem.

This idea is way too general for just one paragraph. Both the topic and attitude are too general. There are many types of pollution and many problems caused by it.  Here is a more focused sentence

Disposing of waste water in the bay has bad effects on beachgoers.

Activity 2: Study the following pairs of topic sentences. Circle the number of the better topic sentence in each pair.

Divorce creates problems for parents and children.

When their parents divorce, children often feel insecure.

New Orleans is an interesting place to visit.

The French Quarter in New Orleans has a quaint, European charm.

Walking is good for your heart.

Exercise is good for you.

Computers are more important now than ever before.

Computers make revising an essay easy.

My parents have taught me to be persistent.

My parents have had a great influence on me.