Let’s go through each sentence one by one and decide if it’s a
topic sentence.
Remember: A topic sentence tells the main idea of a paragraph. It usually gives you an idea of what the rest of the paragraph will be about — like a preview. It doesn’t have to be the first sentence, but it should give enough info to guide the reader.
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1.
“Eggs are not only tasty, they are also healthy.”
→ This sounds like it could start a paragraph talking about why eggs are good for you — maybe listing benefits or recipes. YES, this is a topic sentence.
2.
“That hurt.”
→ Too vague. What hurt? When? Why? No clear main idea here. NO.
3.
“The boys are here.”
→ Just states a fact. Doesn’t suggest what comes next — are we going to talk about what they’re doing? Where they came from? Not really a topic sentence. NO.
4.
“A good job is challenging, rewarding, and pays enough to support you.”
→ This sets up a paragraph that might explain each of those three things. Clear main idea. YES.
5.
“Leisure time should not be equated to idleness or laziness; leisure time actually serves an important purpose in overall mental and physical health.”
→ Strong statement with two parts — perfect for a paragraph explaining why leisure matters. YES.
6.
“My dog likes asparagus.”
→ Cute, but too specific and narrow. Unless the whole paragraph is about your dog’s weird food habits, this isn’t really a topic sentence. Probably NO.
7.
“Tonight we are going out to dinner.”
→ Just a plan. Doesn’t hint at what else will be said — where? who? why? Not a strong topic sentence. NO.
8.
“Mia’s Italian Kitchen is notable for its outstanding food, warm atmosphere, and excellent service.”
→ Perfect! Sets up a paragraph that can describe each of those three things. YES.
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Final Answer:
1. YES
2. NO
3. NO
4. YES
5. YES
6. NO
7. NO
8. YES
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of topic sentence worksheet 5th grade.