Topic Sentences and Paragraph Building:
Exercise 1 : Diagnosing Weak Topic Sentences
Each topic sentence contains a flaw.
Rewrite it into a sophisticated, well-crafted topic sentence that clearly expresses the
main idea.
Technology has changed our lives.
Weakness: Broad/ Lack focus
Why: does not identify the reason
Technology improves daily life by enhancing communication and information access.
1. Pollution is becoming worse nowadays.
2. Some students enjoy online learning.
3. Zoos are good.
4. Young people use social media every day.
Formulated by – Edhuru- pg. 1
Exercise 2: Analysing the Power of Topic Sentences:
Your class recently had a discussion about whether schools should ban mobile phones during
school hours. Your teacher has asked you to write an essay about the subject.
Read the two body paragraphs carefully.
Paragraph A (Favourable View)
Many people believe that mobile phones should be banned in schools because they distract
students from learning. Although phones can occasionally be useful for educational purposes, the
constant temptation of social media, games and messaging often causes students to lose
concentration during lessons. For example, a student who checks notifications during class is likely
to miss important explanations from the teacher, leading to weaker academic performance.
Therefore, limiting phone use creates a more focused learning environment.
Paragraph B (Opposing View with Counter Argument)
On the other hand, allowing students to use mobile phones responsibly can enhance learning,
even though some argue that they are distracting. When teachers supervise their use, students
can quickly research information, participate in educational quizzes and access online learning
resources. For instance, science students can watch short demonstration videos that help them
understand difficult experiments more effectively than textbook diagrams alone. Consequently,
responsible phone use can support learning rather than interrupt it.
Questions
1. Underline the topic sentence in each paragraph.
2. Complete the table.
Question Paragraph A Paragraph B
What is the main idea?
Is a counter argument included?
What examples support the topic sentence?
Does every sentence link back to the topic sentence?
Formulated by – Edhuru- pg. 2
3. Which topic sentence is stronger? Explain two reasons for your answer.
4. Why is the counter argument in Paragraph B effective?
A. It changes the writer's opinion.
B. It acknowledges another viewpoint before presenting the main argument.
C. It repeats the introduction.
D. It gives unnecessary information.
5. Rewrite Paragraph A's topic sentence to make it even stronger by including a counter
argument.
Exercise 3
Construct a Topic Sentence from the given planning note:
Each topic contains brainstorming notes.
Write a Topic Sentence that captures the main idea.
1. Artificial Intelligence: / repetitive tasks / ethical concerns /unemployment
2. Volunteering: develops empathy / leadership / confidence / benefits society
3. Fast Fashion: environmental damage / poor working conditions / encourages
overconsumption
Exercise 4:
For each given Paragraph scenario write a paragraph of 40 to 50 words, which includes:
a. Topic b. Controlling Idea c. Use sophisticated Vocabulary d. Supporting sentences
1. Explain why public parks improve cities.
2. Explain how excessive screen time affects children.
Formulated by – Edhuru- pg. 3