Topic Sentences Topic Sentence A paragraph should be

Topic Sentences

Topic Sentence �A paragraph should be unified around a main point. � The point should be clear to readers, and all sentences in the paragraph should relate to that point. � As a rule, you should state the main point of a paragraph in a topic sentence—a onesentence summary that tells readers what to expect as they read on.

� The topic sentence is the most important sentence of a paragraph. It states the main idea and introduces the reader to the sub point. �A strong and focus topic sentence connects how this information impacts thesis statement.

Main Point of Paragraph � To choose an appropriate topic sentence, read the paragraph and think about its main idea and point. � • The topic sentence should not be too general or too specific. When considering the options, look for a topic sentence that is general enough to show the paragraph’s main idea instead of just one of its details. Give yourself something to expand on.

Supporting Details � • The supporting details in the paragraph (the sentences other than the topic sentence) will develop or explain the topic sentence. � Also, it will tie how the information presented connects and proves a particular part of the argument.

Supporting Details as Evidence � Supporting ◦ ◦ ◦ details- EVIDENCE source information introductions to the source summary of the main idea from the source (context) quotations/paraphrased information. Other facts/stories/logical discussions evaluating your perspective

Concluding Sentence A concluding sentence can and should follow a quote. Do not end your paragraph with a quote because it forces the reader the make the connections. It can clarify how you plan to use the evidence to support your argument. It can explain how the sub point relates, impacts, and proves thesis statement.