Topic Sentences

Each topic sentence must connect back to your thesis statement.

See arguments 1, 2, & 3

Your thesis gives the reader one BIG argument; each topic sentence (arguments 1,2,&3) provides an argument that tells the reader WHY your thesis is true.

Connected vs Disconnected Topic Sentences

Make sure each topic sentence provides an argument that supports the thesis.

Your topic sentence is the "WHY" to your thesis' WHAT?

Thesis: Cats make excellent house pets

Disconnected Topic Sentence: A great pet provides a family with love and companionship.

Connected Topic Sentence: Cats are great companions for families of all sizes.

Thesis: Although it has been embraced as one of the great anthems about American patriotism, Bruce Springsteen's “Born in the USA” is actually a song that criticizes and demonizes America.

Disconnected Topic Sentence: Most songs about America either support or denounce something about the country

Connected Topic Sentence: Born in the U.S.A. tells the tragic story of a young American who is resentful for having been sent to fight in a war that eventually destroys his hopes and dreams.