Plan Then Compose

Worksheet Description

The Topic Sentences worksheet is a planning resource for students to develop a strong topic sentence for a paragraph. It prompts students to first identify the main topic of their paragraph, the purpose or direction of the discussion (the ‘why,’ ‘how,’ or ‘so what’), and to outline supporting details they plan to use. The worksheet also encourages students to think about how they will conclude their paragraph. Finally, it asks students to synthesize this information into a cohesive topic sentence.

This worksheet is teaching students the importance of planning before writing. It helps them understand that a good topic sentence not only introduces the main topic but also provides a glimpse into the direction the paragraph will take. By considering the conclusion and supporting details, students learn how to create a roadmap for their paragraph that informs the reader of what to expect. This skill is fundamental in writing well-structured essays and reports, where clear and directed writing is crucial.