Writing: Basic Paragraph Structure
A2 Lesson 18: Topic & Supporting Sentences
What is a Paragraph?
A paragraph is a group of sentences that are all about one main idea. Think of a paragraph like a box: you only put things inside the box that belong together. If you want to talk about a new idea, you start a new box (a new paragraph!).
The Parts of a Paragraph
A good, simple paragraph has two main parts: the topic sentence and supporting sentences.
This is usually the first sentence. Its job is to tell the reader the main idea of the whole paragraph.
Example: My favorite place in Siem Reap is the Old Market.
These sentences come after the topic sentence. They give more details, examples, and information about the main idea.
Example: I can buy souvenirs, clothes, and delicious street food there.
Important Rule: Stay on Topic!
All of your supporting sentences must connect to the topic sentence. Do not include unrelated ideas. Look at this example:
My favorite place in Siem Reap is the Old Market. There are many interesting shops there. My favorite food is fish amok. It is always busy and full of energy.
The sentence "My favorite food is fish amok" does not belong. The main idea is about the Old Market, not about your favorite food in general.
Practice Your Skills 🎯
Exercise: Find the Off-Topic Sentence
Read the paragraph below and find the one sentence that does not belong.
(1) Visiting Angkor Wat at sunrise is an amazing experience. (2) The colors in the sky are beautiful. (3) Angkor Wat is a very old temple. (4) Many people wake up early to see it. (5) It can be very quiet and peaceful at that time.
Answer: Sentence (3) does not belong. The main idea is about the experience of the sunrise, not a general fact about the temple's age.
Your Writing Mission ⭐
Build a Paragraph
Use the topic sentence below to build your own paragraph. Write 2-3 supporting sentences that give more details about the main idea.
Topic Sentence: My favorite type of weather is the cool season.
(Example Answer: The air is fresh and not too hot. I can walk around the city comfortably. It is the best time for tourists to visit.)
Key Vocabulary
- Paragraph A group of sentences about one main idea.
- Main Idea The most important thought or message in a paragraph.
- Topic Sentence The sentence that states the main idea of a paragraph.
- Supporting Sentence A sentence that gives more details about the main idea.