1. The Topic Sentence

2. The Purpose/Function of the Topic Sentence A topic sentence essentially tells what the rest of the paragraph is about. All sentences after it have to give more information about the sentence. All sentences after it prove it by offering facts about it, or describe it.

3. Features of a Good Topic Sentence It controls or guide the whole paragraph. Topic Sentence: There are many reasons why pollution in ABC Town is the worst in the world. It is not a general fact. Libraries have books. It is specific. Green tea has many health benefits. It is not too specific. The monolingual dictionary has more than 42,000 words. A good topic sentence has a controlling idea (words or phrases) that guide the flow of ideas in the paragraph. There are many possible contributing factors to global warming.

4. Topic Sentences and Controlling Ideas Every topic sentence will have a topic and a controlling idea. The controlling idea shows the direction the paragraph will take. Here are some examples:  Topic Sentence: Cooking requires a number of different skills. The topic is "cooking" and the controlling idea is "many different skills.“  Topic Sentence: It is important to be ready before buying a house. The topic is "before buying a house" and the controlling idea is the importance of being ready.  Topic Sentence: Graduating from high school is important for many different reasons. The topic is "graduating from high school" and the controlling idea is "many different reasons."  Topic Sentence: Remodeling a kitchen successfully requires research and a good eye. The topic is "remodeling a kitchen" and the controlling idea is "requires research and a good eye."

5. Tips for writing a good topic sentence Generally speaking, topic sentences are: Short Simple Clear Give a strong idea Often use phrases such as: One of the main reasons for ….. One of the major factors in ………… is……………. Generally speaking, ……… One of the strongest arguments against/ in favor of………is …. One of the main advantages / disadvantages of ………….is ……

6. Good Vs. Bad Topic Sentences Abraham Lincoln was born in 1809. Good: Abraham Lincoln, born in 1809, was one of the most influential politicians in history. Bad: Education is important. Good: Education is important in lowering crime rates. Bad: today I am going to write about Toyota Corolla. Good: I like Toyota Corolla for many reasons.

7. My favorite drink is tea and I drink a lot of it. I always have tea in the morning for breakfast. I make a pot of tea and then I drink it all myself. Sometimes I have another pot before lunch. At four o’clock, I make a cup of mint tea. Mint tea is good for waking up and studying. Tick the correct information about topic sentences. A topic sentence is:  at or near the start of the paragraph.  at the end of the paragraph.  the main idea of the paragraph.  a small detail from the paragraph.  one or two words.  a complete sentence.