Composing Topic Sentences Common Places: Integrated Reading and Writing

Effective Topic Sentences Characteristics expresses the most important point in the paragraph presents an idea that requires support expresses an idea that is broader than the ideas in supporting sentences is not a question Effective Topic Sentences

Method 1. Write down the topic. 2. Write down the point you wish to make about the topic. 3. Write a sentence that combines the topic and your point.

Assignment: Write a paragraph in which you identify and discuss a core college course that is crucial for being a well-informed person in today’s world. Example 1. Topic selected: college course in World Geography . 2. Point to be made: what taking World Geography means for understanding world events . 3. Topic sentence: Because it is so important for understanding world events, World Geography should be a required course for all college students.

Effective Topic Sentence Checklist Expresses the most important point in the paragraph? The other sentences will help prove the point that college students should take World Geography. Presents an idea that requires support? Readers will want to know why the course is so important. Expresses an idea that is broader than the ideas in supporting sentences? The supporting sentences will give specific reasons why the course is important enough to be required of all college students.  Not a question?    

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