Let’s review topic sentences! Topic Sentence The topic sentence of a paragraph states the claim. The claim is the point you are trying to make.
Supporting Details Begins with a transition. Examples of transitions would be: First, Second, Third, For Example, Another example is… This is written in your own words and gives a detailed reason that supports what you wrote in your topic sentence. Supporting details tell why your topic sentence is true. Stop and Jot: Why are supporting details important in a paragraph?
Example #1 Prompt: Write a paragraph about how students at Meigs avoid cheating in their writing. Topic Sentence: At Meigs, students make sure they avoid cheating in many ways. Reason #1: First, Meigs students always provide the name of their sources. Reason #2: Second, they avoid cheating by working on assignments independently. Reason #3: Third, Meigs students refrain from talking during quizzes and assessments.
Example #2: Prompt: Are computer skills a necessary skill for individuals to have today? Topic Sentence: Computers skills are absolutely essential for an individual to have in the world today. Reason #1: First, without computer skills, it would be difficult to complete high school and college assignments. Reason #2: Second, most companies do not hire individuals with little or no computer skills. Reason #3: Third, computer skills are necessary to communicate in a technology driven world.