4A1 - Topic sentences

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• vwo
• Leerjaar 4

What does a thesis statement consist of?

Thesis statement

A thesis statement consists of a thesis (your opinion) and a road map (your reasons). 

What language characterizes a thesis? Name two things.

Thesis statement: language

Thesis statement is written in the third person (it is your opinion, but state it as a fact. No 'I think' or 'in my opinion')

Use strong, persuasive language language

• Modals: should, must, have to ​
• Comparatives or superlatives 

Example

Corporal punishment should be banned all over the world because it harms children physically and mentally.

Physical punishment must be prohibited because children could get seriously hurt and teachers could abuse their power. 

Share your topic sentence.

Topic sentences

A topic sentence is the first sentence of your body paragraph, in which you present the argument that you will develop in that paragraph.

Your topic sentences reflect the arguments in your road map: they are more elaborate versions of those arguments. 

Thesis statement vs. topic sentence

A thesis statement tells what the entire essay is about.

Position: last sentence of introduction

A topic sentence tells what a body paragraph is about

Position: first sentence of body paragraphs

Thesis statement to topic sentence

Corporal punishment should be banned all over the world because it harms children physically and mentally.

First of all, physical punishment can seriously harm children. 

Secondly, physical punishment can cause a serious trauma in children. 

Three elements are required in your topic sentences:

1. A linking word (of sequencing ideas);

2. A reference to your thesis (not 'it')

3. Your argument (in different words than your road map)

First of all, physical punishment can seriously harm children.

 Some useful linking words to introduce/sum up arguments:

• The first/second/third reason why..
  
• Another reason why ... / Another important point is ...
  
• First / Secondly / Thirdly ..
  
• Moreover / Furthermore / Additionally / In addition to...
  
• Not only .. but also ..

Assignment

Turn your thesis statement into two topic sentences.

Write this down in your notebook. 

Share your topic sentences

Body paragraph 1 + 2

Your body paragraphs should follow the 'SEXI' structure:

• Statement: Give the topic of your paragraph (argument)
• Explanation: Explain the topic sentence > provide more explanation on the subject
• Example: Provide an example to illustrate your argument.
• Importance: Conclude your paragraph by explaining why your point is important (but do not repeat your thesis). 

Assignment (homework)

Develop your topic sentences into two full body paragraphs using the SEXI method. 

What is not a good linking word for your first paragraph?

1. First
2. The first reason why
3. At first
4. First of all

What is not a good linking word for your second body paragraph?

1. The second reason why
2. Secondly
3. Furthermore
4. Thereafter