write out two topic sentences and clearly explain the controlling idea of each
Answers
Explanation:
The "topic sentence" is the sentence in which the main idea of the paragraph is stated. It is unquestionably the most important sentence in the paragraph. The topic sentence generally is composed of two parts: (a) the topic itself and (b) the controlling idea.
The Topic
The topic is the subject of the paragraph. It is what the paragraph is all about. The following are topics suitable for a paragraph:
The SLR camera
Vegetarianism
Tokyo
Pottery
A wedding cake
Writing effective topic sentences, however, involves more than merely stating the subject of the paragraph. A good topic sentence is specific and well focused, guiding the entire paragraph. A good topic sentence:
Has new information. It is not a fact that everyone already knows to be true (for example, A dictionary has meanings for words.).
Is specific. If the topic is too general (for example, I like camping.), the reader will not know what to expect in the paragraph.
Is general enough to invite exploration of the topic. If the topic sentence is too specific (for example, Webster's New World Dictionary has more than 40,000 words.), there will be nothing else to say on the subject.
Is strong. Starting a topic sentence with there is/are (as in There are several ways to cook rice.) is a weak opener.
Is stated in positive language. Negative language (for example, You might hate to do it, but you should keep your room clean.) should not be part of the topic sentence.
Is not an announcement. A topic sentence should draw the reader into the paragraph. Announcements (like This paragraph will discuss how to build a bird house.) hold little attraction for readers.