Topic Sentences
The Umbrella
The sentence that covers everything
THE FORMULA
Topic
+
Idea
Cycling is an excellent way to stay healthy.
Topic: What are we talking about? (Cycling)
Idea: What about it? (It's healthy)
Idea: What about it? (It's healthy)
Why do we need it?
Without a topic sentence, the reader gets lost. It acts like a map 🗺️ for your paragraph. Every sentence that follows must relate back to this one idea.
The "Just Right" Test
Not too big, not too small
Paragraph Topic: "Why iPhones are popular."
Option A
Technology is very important in the modern world.
Option B
The iPhone 15 costs $999 at the Apple Store.
Option C
iPhones are popular because they are easy to use.
Paragraph Detective
Find the missing head
[ ??????????????? ]
First, you need to boil the water. Next, add the noodles to the pot. Wait for 3 minutes. Finally, drain the water and add the seasoning packet.
First, you need to boil the water. Next, add the noodles to the pot. Wait for 3 minutes. Finally, drain the water and add the seasoning packet.
A. Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.
B. Making instant noodles is a simple process.
C. I love eating noodles for lunch.
Mission
Write It Yourself
Prompt: Why learning English is useful.
Task: Write one clear topic sentence in your notebook.
Formula: [Learning English] + [Controlling Idea]
Example: Learning English is useful because it helps you travel the world.
Task: Write one clear topic sentence in your notebook.
Formula: [Learning English] + [Controlling Idea]
Example: Learning English is useful because it helps you travel the world.