Topic Sentences and Paragraphs

1. Topic Sentences and Paragraphs Developmental Writing I: 0306

2. Topic Sentences • A topic sentence has two separate parts • The first part is the topic which is the key word or phrase of the sentence. • The second part is the direction or general word, which may be a conclusion, an opinion or a statement about the topic.

3. Examples • Browsing in the library is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. • My trip to the zoo taught me a lot about animals. • Public transportation can be a great way to assist a community.

4. Paragraphs • A paragraph should have three parts • Topic Sentence • Support Sentences • Conclusion

5. Writing a Paragraph • Choose a topic • Sometimes as a class we will be expected to all write on the same topic • There will also be times where you have the opportunity to select a topic that interests you

6. Writing a Paragraph • Pre-write • Use one of the prewriting activities we have already discussed • Remember to focus on creating ideas not grammar or mechanics of your writing

7. Brainstorm for Direction • This is just another part of the pre-writing process. • When you brainstorm for direction you are looking for more ideas and details about the topic that you have chosen. • Once you have selected a topic you will use that for direction as you continue writing. • You do not need to be specific during this process you can use general words like fun or quiet.

8. Writing the Topic Sentence • Choose a direction • Think about your topic sentence and develop it – making sure that you have included the word or phrase and the direction you are taking your paragraph. • Write the Topic Sentence using your previous thoughts and ideas • You can list the supporting details and a concluding idea if you would like a list of your ideas

9. Draft the Paragraph • Write your topic sentence followed by supporting sentences and a concluding sentence. • If you created a list of sentences you can use this to organize your ideas into a strong sentence.

10. Elements of a Strong Paragraph • Completeness • A paragraph must include enough information to give the reader a clear picture or a full discussion of its main idea (the topic sentence).

11. Elements of a Strong Paragraph • Unity • All sentences in a good paragraph relate to the topic sentence (main idea). When any idea doesn’t relate specifically to the topic sentence, then that paragraph lacks unity or is not unified.

12. Elements of a Strong Paragraph • Coherence • Using connecting words or phrases to connect ideas to each other • Without connecting words or phrases it may be difficult to follow the paragraph and understand what the writer is trying to convey. • This is one of the most important parts of a strong paragraph.

13. Put only one main idea per paragraph. Aim for three to five or more sentences per paragraph. Include on each page about two handwritten or three typed paragraphs. Make your paragraphs proportional to your paper. Since paragraphs do less work in short papers, have short paragraphs for short papers and longer paragraphs for longer papers. Rules of Thumb

14. If you have a few very short paragraphs, think about whether they are really parts of a larger paragraph--and can be combined--or whether you can add details to support each point and thus make each into a more fully developed paragraph. Brought to you by the Purdue University Online Writing Lab Last Rule of Thumb