Supporting Sentences 

[Constructing effective supporting sentences for a paragraph]

Last week, we took a closer look at the elements inside a topic sentence. In brief, a topic sentence presents the central idea of the paragraph to the reader. It is a one-sentence summary that serves as a concise summary of the entire paragraph's content. Most importantly, the topic sentence comprises two key components: the topic, which represents the primary subject matter of the paragraph, and the controlling idea, usually a few words limiting the topic to a certain direction.

Having acquired comprehension in composing an effective topic sentence, the subsequent step involves drafting supporting sentences. Supporting sentences describe, explain, clarify, or give examples of the main idea in the topic sentence. They aptly address questions such as Who? What? When? Where? Why? and How?

It is imperative that each paragraph has a sufficient number of supporting details so as to clearly describe the main idea to the reader. Furthermore, each supporting sentence should maintain a close relationship with the topic sentence and its controlling idea.

There are also different types of supporting sentences. An experienced writer uses many different kinds of supporting sentences.

Supporting sentences can: 

1.    Explain

Topic sentence: There are many support services for students at the university.

Supporting sentence: Since many college students experience at least some level of stress, counselors are always available to help them.

2.    Describe

Topic sentence: The Sundown River is an extremely important area for migratory birds such as sandhill cranes.

Supporting sentence: This rich, natural environment provides the birds with a safe place to rest before continuing on the lengthy journey.

3.    Give reasons

Topic sentence: Note-taking is one of the most useful study skills to learn.

Supporting sentence: Reviewing good notes before a test will help students learn the most important information.

4.    Give facts

Topic sentence: Jogging is not as easy as it appears.

Supporting sentence: More than 20 percent of adults cannot run farther than 100 meters without stopping to rest.

5.    Give examples

Topic sentence: Brazil has several key natural resources.

Supporting sentence: Brazil is the leading producer of cocoa, sugarcane, and soybeans.

Just remember, one way to develop supporting details is to ask questions about your topic sentence. Look at your topic sentence and ask questions with Who? What? When? Where? Why? or How?

Your favorite EMI friend JJ, 

Signing off