This document discusses the structure and function of topic sentences. It explains that a topic sentence tells the reader about a single paragraph's limited topic and presents the writer's viewpoint on that topic. A topic sentence has three main parts: the limited topic, a verb, and the writer's attitude, feeling, idea, opinion or point of view. Examples are provided to illustrate how to construct an effective topic sentence.

1. Structure of a Topic Sentence
EGL 101

2. Function of a Topic Sentence
 Tells reader about a single paragraph’s
limited topic.
 Presents your attitude, feeling, idea, opinion,
or point of view about that limited topic.

3. Parts of a Topic Sentence
 A topic sentence has three main parts:
 Limited Topic
 Verb
 Attitude, idea, feeling, opinion, or point of view

4. Constructing a Topic Sentence
First, state your
Limited topic

5. Constructing a Topic Sentence
Second, choose a
Limited topic + verb

6. Constructing a Topic Sentence
Third, express your
Limited topic + verb + attitude, feeling, idea, opinion, or point of view.

7. A Constructed Topic Sentence
Limited topic + verb + attitude, feeling, idea,
opinion, or point of view.

8. Example
One benefit of owning a pet + is +
companionship.

9. Example
The main reason the company president
should be fired + is + incompetence.

10. Example
One change our cafeteria should make + is +
provide healthier meals.

11. Example
Many celebrities + dress + in clothes that are
too revealing.

12. Topic Sentence v. Thesis Statement
 A topic sentence applies only to a single
paragraph within an essay.
 A thesis statement applies to an entire essay.