Topic Sentences and Paragraphs

Developmental Writing I: 0306

Topic Sentences

A topic sentence has two separate partsThe 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.

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.

Paragraphs

A paragraph should have three partsTopic SentenceSupport SentencesConclusion

Writing a Paragraph

Choose a topicSometimes as a class we will be expected

to all write on the same topicThere will also be times where you have

the opportunity to select a topic that interests you

Writing a Paragraph

Pre-writeUse one of the prewriting activities we

have already discussedRemember to focus on creating ideas not

grammar or mechanics of your writing

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.

Writing the Topic Sentence

Choose a directionThink 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

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.

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).

Elements of a Strong Paragraph

UnityAll 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.

Elements of a Strong Paragraph

CoherenceUsing connecting words or phrases to

connect ideas to each otherWithout 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.

Rules of Thumb

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.

Last Rule of Thumb

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