Topic sentences worksheet - Free Printable

Let's solve the worksheet step by step and explain each part clearly.

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A) Tick the options about what a topic sentence is.

We are asked to identify which statements correctly describe a topic sentence.

Let’s analyze each option:

1. ✔ at or near the start of the paragraph.
→ This is usually true. Topic sentences often appear at the beginning of a paragraph to introduce the main idea.

2. ✘ at the end of the paragraph.
→ While sometimes used in persuasive writing, this is not typical. Topic sentences are generally not at the end.

3. ✔ the main idea of the paragraph.
→ Yes! The purpose of a topic sentence is to express the central idea of the paragraph.

4. ✘ a small detail from the paragraph.
→ No. A topic sentence is not a detail; it's the big idea.

5. ✘ one or two words.
→ No. A topic sentence must be a complete sentence.

6. ✔ a complete sentence.
→ Yes. It must be a full sentence with a subject and verb.

✔ Correct answers to tick:
- at or near the start of the paragraph.
- the main idea of the paragraph.
- a complete sentence.

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B) Look at the next topic sentences. Write the topic and the controlling idea.

Recall:
- Topic: What the paragraph is about (the subject).
- Controlling idea: What the writer will focus on or say about the topic.

Let’s break down each sentence.

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#### 1. My sister and I have different personalities.

- Topic: My sister and I
*(Who the sentence is about)*
- Controlling idea: have different personalities
*(What the writer will focus on — their differing traits)*

✔ Answer:
- Topic: My sister and I
- Controlling idea: have different personalities

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#### 2. The best time to travel in my country is summer.

- Topic: The best time to travel in my country
*(The subject being discussed)*
- Controlling idea: is summer
*(The specific point — summer is the best time)*

✔ Answer:
- Topic: The best time to travel in my country
- Controlling idea: is summer

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#### 3. My city is a friendly place to visit.

- Topic: My city
*(The subject)*
- Controlling idea: is a friendly place to visit
*(What the writer will emphasize — its friendliness for visitors)*

✔ Answer:
- Topic: My city
- Controlling idea: is a friendly place to visit

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#### 4. The most popular sport in Colombia is soccer.

- Topic: The most popular sport in Colombia
*(Subject of discussion)*
- Controlling idea: is soccer
*(The key claim — soccer is the most popular)*

✔ Answer:
- Topic: The most popular sport in Colombia
- Controlling idea: is soccer

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✔ Final Answers for Part B:

| TOPIC SENTENCES | TOPIC | CONTROLLING IDEA |
|------------------|-------|------------------|
| 1. My sister and I have different personalities. | My sister and I | have different personalities |
| 2. The best time to travel in my country is summer. | The best time to travel in my country | is summer |
| 3. My city is a friendly place to visit. | My city | is a friendly place to visit |
| 4. The most popular sport in Colombia is soccer. | The most popular sport in Colombia | is soccer |

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🔍 Summary of Key Concepts:

- A topic sentence introduces the main idea of a paragraph.
- It is usually at the beginning, a complete sentence, and expresses the main idea.
- It has two parts: topic (what it’s about) and controlling idea (what will be said about it).

This structure helps readers understand what the paragraph will discuss and keeps the writing focused.

Let me know if you'd like a version formatted as a printable answer sheet!