Generating Topic Sentences American Literature 11

The topic sentence in an essay of literary analysis functions as follows: Proves and supports a thesis statement Tells the reader the focus of the paragraph States an arguable claim, idea, or assertion Expresses the writer ’ s expert analysis of the literature

Other considerations for topic sentence composition: The topic sentence is concrete, clear, and specific. The topic sentence addresses the title and author of a literary work in an essay that addresses/analyzes more than one literary work. The topic sentence is the very first sentence of a paragraph. The topic sentence can include a transitional phrase that refers to the previous paragraph. Analysis is arrived at by answering an implied HOW or WHY question. Use only present tense and active verbs.

Avoid the following when composing a topic sentence: 1 st person point of view Plot summary Stating the obvious Vague or abstract ideas and language Loaded language Passive voice Generalizations or commentary Hooks or opening statements

Sample topic sentences As you read the following sample topic sentences, consider their strengths and weaknesses. Keep in mind that these topic sentences are taken out of the context of a larger analytical essay.

Sample 1: Rodriguez writes about his conflicts with language in elementary school and further reveals how these conflicts negatively affected his cultural identity.

Sample 2: The unfolding plot in Steinbeck ’ s “ The Chrysanthemums ” reveals Elisa ’ s character as she works in her garden and meets a traveling stranger.