topic sentences
Main idea statements
A topic sentence is the sentence in a paragraph that states its main idea, typically appearing first.
It announces what the paragraph will discuss, with subsequent sentences providing support or elaboration.
Each body paragraph should begin with a clear topic sentence.
The term belongs to composition instruction, where students learn to structure paragraphs around a controlling idea.
- main ideaCentral concept conveyed
- pointExact location or meaning
- paragraphDistinct section of text
- body paragraphEssay section with evidence
- claimStatement of ownership or truth
focus · subject · key point · assertion · thesis statement · coherence · main · argument · central · transitions · introduction · premise · idea · proposition · context · discussion · writing · clear writing
- language artsreading comprehension, grammar rules, vocabulary building, phonics, spelling bees
- writing skillshandwriting, spelling, words, letters, writing prompts
- outlinesoutline, framework, skeleton, structure, schema
- writing instructionwriting prompts, writing prompt, creative writing, essay writing, paragraph writing
- text cohesioncohesion, coherence, reference, transitions, connectives
- clarityclearness, clear, obvious, simplification, concise
topic sentencesevidence
Facts supporting truth
examples · supporting evidence · illustrations · quotations · data points
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