Topic Sentences

What is the function of the topic sentence? It is your key idea for the paragraph It relates directly to the essay topic It must be thought provoking It should provide a solid basis for discussion

A TOPIC SENTENCE NEVER… Describes an event. If you do, then you become trapped into retelling the story. NO…DON’T GO THERE!

Effective topic sentences Are about ideas Set you up to make a point You then use the rest of your paragraph to develop the point made in your topic sentence by explaining further and giving examples.

Writing sentences Subjects and Predicates Topic sentences have subjects (nouns) and predicates (verbs) The predicate, or verb part of the sentence, has a pointer Everything in the paragraph should point in the same direction

Topic sentences are complex sentences Complex sentences are made when you join two or more sentences together with a conjunction. The second clause gives extra detail and makes a sentence more sophisticated and explicit. A complex topic sentence enables deeper discussion of the topic.

A GOOD INTRODUCTION A well written introduction is the key to a successful essay. It should deal closely with the topic and the issues you are intending to deal with. It must provide a definite response to the topic.

An introduction… includes you are writing about – essay topic – key words Puts forward your contention States the author and text Signposts the IDEAS of you body paragraphs (but these are GENERAL IDEAS not character specific) Is 5-8 sentences long: 1-2 sentences to introduce the text 1-2 contention 3-4 sentences IDEAS

To reiterate: AN INTRODUCTION NEVER… Repeats the topic in the opening sentence Does not ignore the topic. Uses phrases like: ‘In my opinion’ or ‘I agree’ NO…DON’T GO THERE!

A GOOD CONCLUSION A well written conclusion ties off all the threads of your ideas.

A conclusion… Wraps up your essay/ties off all your arguments Summarises your arguments/ideas Does not include specific examples Contains no new ideas Presents a resolution of the contention Is best when it finishes with the perfect quote.

To reiterate: A CONCLUSION DOES NOT… Introduce new ideas End with ‘In conclusion’ or ‘To sum up’ Just summarise your points. NO…DON’T GO THERE!

Formula (1 x topic sentence) + details/supporting arguments + textual evidence = Very good paragraph (1 x topic sentence) + details/supporting arguments + textual evidence + linking = excellent paragraph

Your turn…