Writing Topic Sentences Topic Sentences = Topic + Controlling Idea

Topic Sentences: An Overview identifies the main ideaEvery paragraph should include a topic sentence that identifies the main idea of the paragraph. Generally, the topic sentence appears at the beginning of the paragraph. It is often the paragraph’s very first sentence. A topic sentence also states the point the writer wishes to make about that subject.

Topic Sentences: Generally Specific A paragraph’s topic sentence must be general enough to express the paragraph’s overall subject. But it should be specific enough that the reader can understand the paragraph’s main subject and point.

Topic Sentences: A tiny thesis Topic sentences often act like tiny thesis statements. Like a thesis statement, a topic sentence makes a claim of some sort.

Topic Sentences: A tiny thesis As the thesis statement is the unifying force in the essay, so the topic sentence must be the unifying force in the paragraph. Further, as is the case with the thesis statement, when the topic sentence makes a claim, the paragraph which follows must expand, describe, or prove it in some way. Topic sentences make a point and give reasons or examples to support it.

Topic Sentences Often Use Phrases Such As: One of the main reasons for ….. One of the major factors in ………… is……………. Generally speaking, ……… One of the strongest arguments against/ in favor of………is …. One of the main advantages / disadvantages of ………….is ……

Good vs. Needs Improvement Abraham Lincoln was born in Abraham Lincoln, born in 1809, was one of the most influential politicians in history.

Good vs. Needs Improvement I am going to discuss the Battle of Gettysburg. The Battle of Gettysburg, fought in 1863, was the turning point in the Civil War.

Good vs. Needs Improvement The Civil War had lasting effects on the American South. Because the Civil War was fought mostly on Southern soil, it had lasting effects on the region.

Good vs. Needs Improvement The novel and the article have things in common. “Facts About Farmworkers” and Of Mice and Men show common experiences among workers.

Your Task & Examples Write out the topic sentences for your essay. fourThere should be at least four. One for each of the articles. Use the following examples as a guide. Topic Sentences = Topic + verb + Controlling Idea

Sample Topic Sentences Lennie and George have many things in common with migrant workers. Although Lennie and George have many things in common with migrant workers, there are also some differences.

Sample Topic Sentences John Steinbeck wanted to show a realistic portrayal of the lifestyle of the farm worker in his novel. By connecting current information about farm workers to the novel, the reader is able to see how they relate.

WRITE TOPIC SENTENCES BASED OFF OF YOUR 3-2-1s.