Topic Sentence

[Writing Series — Constructing an effective topic sentence for a paragraph]

Before we move on to writing an essay, let’s break down the components of a paragraph.

A paragraph constitutes a collection of sentences revolving around a central concept. A paragraph is characterized by a clear purpose, which may include listing, showing the causes or effects of something, or presenting an argument. Each component of a paragraph serves a particular purpose and holds significance. A paragraph is comprised of three main parts:

·      The topic sentence

·      The supporting sentences

·      The concluding sentences

The primary purpose of the topic sentence is to convey the central concept or notion that the author aims to express. It is a one-sentence summary that serves as a concise summary of the entire paragraph's content. The remaining sentences within the paragraph contribute to the development and elaboration of the main idea introduced in the topic sentence. The organization of a paragraph is established upon the topic sentence.

The topic sentence comprises of two key components: the topic, which represents the primary subject matter of the paragraph, and the controlling idea. The controlling idea serves as a guiding force, directing the main subject matter towards the precise direction desired by the writer. Study the following examples of topic sentences.

[1]

Supercomputers are used to perform very complex tasks.

Topic: Supercomputers

Controlling idea: perform very complex tasks

From this sentence, we know that the paragraph is going to discuss supercomputers. Specifically, it will discuss some complicated tasks of supercomputers.

[2]

Computers have changed enormously in the past 10 years.

Topic: Computers

Controlling idea: changed enormously in the past 10 years

This topic sentence tells us that the paragraph is going to explain how computers have changed.

[3] Computers were invented in the 20th century.

Topic: Computers

Controlling idea: X

The information in is sentence is a simple fact. This is not a good topic sentence because it does not indicate that there is anything more to say about the topic. It does not have a controlling idea that a writer can discuss in a paragraph.

Wrapping up, just remember you need two elements: a main idea (topic) and a controlling idea to make up an effective topic sentence. 

Your favorite EMI friend JJ, 

Signing off