Topic Sentences

Topic sentences are the foundation of the paragraph. It should tell exactly what the paragraph is about.

• True

• False

Where are topic sentences usually located within a paragraph?

• last sentence

• in the middle

• first sentence

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

A topic sentences states the _________________ of a paragraph.

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

Avoid writing topic sentences that are:

(More than one answer is possible.)

• too broad

• too narrow

• off topic

• insulting to the reader

• clearly stating the main idea

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

Topic sentences should follow these 3 guidelines:

• CCS: clear, concise, strong

• CCS: clear, concise, supportable

• CSS: common, strong, supportable

• BCC: broad, clear, concise

Which of the following is a well-written topic sentence?

• Many come to experience the rich culture and ocean waves.

• The natural beauty, warm climate, and surrounding waters make it a popular tourist destination.

• The state of Hawaii is a great vacation destination.

• I want to tell you about Hawaii.

Tags

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

Which of the following would be a good topic sentence?

• On Thanksgiving, I ate turkey.

• Thanksgiving is a popular American holiday.

• Families gather.

• This is why Thanksgiving is a popular American holiday.

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

Which of the following is a well-written topic sentence?

• My friend traveled to the Dominican Republic in the summer.

• My friend sends money to her family in Chile each month.

• My friend is generous.

• My friend likes cheese pizza.

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

Which sentence is a quality topic sentence?

• I like to go sled riding on the hill in my backyard.

• Winter is a season that brings me joy.

• These are the reasons I like winter.

• Winter is a season.

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

They are unable to play with you. It is difficult to know if they like you. They are boring to have around.

Which sentence would make a good topic sentence?

• Goldfish are bad pets.

• I do not like teachers.

• My aunt has two brothers.

• I am thankful for my Xbox.

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2