Topic Sentence and Powerful Vocabulary

in Paragraphs

Learning Intention

Examine a paragraph to identify a topic sentence

Develop an understanding of what a topic sentence is

Improve topic sentence through the use of synonyms

Success Criteria

I can identify a topic sentence

I can write a topic sentence

I can choose appropriate synonyms to improve my writing

Key Vocabulary:

• structure

• paragraph

• topic

• details

• idea

Brainstorm:

What is a paragraph?

What is the topic sentence of a paragraph?

What is a paragraph?A paragraph is a group of sentences that convey

an idea.

What is a topic sentenceThe most important sentence in your paragraph

is the topic sentence, which clearly states the subject of the whole paragraph.

The topic sentence is usually the first sentence of the paragraph because it gives an overview of the sentences to follow.

The Topic SentenceRead the handout:

Which is the topic sentence?

How can you tell?

What is the main idea of the paragraph?

A good topic sentence: informs the reader of the subject that will be

discussed in the paragraph

asserts the writer’s point of view or attitude,

intrigues the reader to continue reading,

creates a sense of action, and

is not vague, rambling, too narrow or too broad.

Your TaskUsing your planner to guide you, create a topic

sentence for the introduction of your autobiography.

Synonyms • Who would like to volunteer

their topic sentence for everyone to learn from?

Now we are going to:• Underline interesting words• Circle words we may be

able to make more interesting

• Now, let’s rewrite the sentence with the new words included

Your turn …Now do the same for your topic sentence

• Underline interesting words

• Circle words you may be able to make more interesting

• Now, rewrite the sentence with the new words included

In one sentence, tell me what you now know about topic sentences

In another sentence, explain how you can make your writing more interesting

What other learning actions did you use today?