Compare Topic Sentences I am going to write about the problems of being the first-born child. Baby-sitting four rambunctious brothers while your parents shop for groceries is only one of the problems of being the first-born child. Compare Topic Sentences

Compare Topic Sentences I appreciate America’s veterans because they are brave. Standing brave in the face of danger is just one reason I appreciate America’s veterans. When danger is near, I appreciate that our veterans bravely tackle the jobs needed. Compare Topic Sentences

Topic Sentence Makes the main idea clear First sentence Catches reader’s interest Specific (narrow enough for 1 paragraph) Topic Sentence

Topic Sentence Questions 1. Is the main idea stated clearly? 2. Is the sentence interesting enough to catch the reader’s attention? 3. Is the main idea specific enough to be developed in one paragraph? (focused) Topic Sentence Questions

1. My paragraph is about the excitement of motorbike racing. 2. The crackling fireplace and the brightly colored leaves strewn about our lawn remind me that autumn is my favorite season. 3. I would really like to write about the fact that this city needs a sports complex for kids. Practice -Read each topic sentence and ask each of the 3 questions. If you answer NO to any of the questions, rewrite the topic sentence.

Write 2 topic sentences for each of your body paragraphs. Keep the 3 questions in mind. Now, for your essay!

Get your elbow buddy’s thoughts. Discuss the paragraph topic. Read both topic sentences. Which of the topic sentences is better? Explain why you think this. Get your elbow buddy’s thoughts.