Begin with a topic sentence:  State what the paragraph is about, the topic.  Make it interesting.  Be sure to indent!!!!!!

Example: Last summer my family went on an amazing picnic in a park. is the topic of this paragraph. Picnic

The ancient Egyptians believed in many different gods and goddesses and each one had their own role to play in maintaining peace and harmony across the land. Some gods and goddesses took part in creation. Other gods and goddesses brought the flood every year. Some offered protection, and some took care of people after they died. Egyptians had local gods who represented towns, and minor gods who represented plants or animals. The ancient Egyptians believed that it was important to recognize and worship these gods and goddesses so that life continued smoothly. Topic Sentence Closing Statement DETAILSDETAILS

Think of a good topic sentence for this set of details.  Penguin Moms lay the eggs and afterwards leave to get food for 2months.  Penguin dads incubate the egg until it hatches.  They take turns caring for their chick and feeding in the sea.  Once the egg hatches, The young stay sheltered in the pouch of the mother while the father brings food.

Student Examples of Topic Sentences  Mother and father penguins both take care of their young.  Mother and father penguins play a very important role in raising their young.  Penguin mom and dads are very good parents.  Penguin parents are very protective of their young and I will show you how.

Topic Sentences: Bad Examples  I went to the Grand Canyon this winter and to Mexico in the spring of  My friend is nice.  I like my bedroom.

Topic Sentences: Good Examples  When I was a child, I lived in a house that had a strange atmosphere.  There is a canyon in Northern Arizona that is the most beautiful place on Earth.  My favorite item of clothing is a comfortable, worn pair of jeans that I have had for many years.

The most beautiful flower is the rose because it comes in so many different colors. Another beautiful flower is the daisy which sometimes grows wild. Spring flowers like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses are also very pretty.  A. Don’t you just love spring?  B. The rose is the most loved flower the world over.  C. There are many lovely flowers to consider for your garden. Which of the following topic sentences is the best one for the above paragraph?

He collects books that were written over a hundred years ago. But he is also interested in the best sellers of today. If I ever need to get him a present, I know I can always please him by buying him a book.  A. Reading is fun.  B. Books are my father’s hobby.  C. My father was a main influence in my life. Which of the following topic sentences is the best one for the above paragraph?

First, Canada has an excellent health care system. All Canadians have access to medical services at a reasonable price. Second, Canada has a high standard of education. Finally, Canada’s cities are clean and efficiently managed.  A. Canada is our friendly neighbor to the north.  B. There are three reasons why Canada is one of the best countries of the world.  C. Choose Canada as a great place to vacation. Which of the following topic sentences is the best one for the above paragraph?

Practice with Topic Sentences  Write a topic sentence for each of the following topics: A) your favorite possession B) an interesting person you know C) a beautiful place