Why every sentence must support the topic sentence:
* Clarity and Focus: A topic sentence acts like a roadmap for the paragraph. Every sentence that follows should act as a signpost, guiding the reader along the intended path of the argument or idea.
* Cohesion: Supporting sentences create a sense of unity and coherence. They build upon the central idea, providing evidence, explanations, or examples to make the topic sentence more convincing.
* Avoidance of Digressions: Including irrelevant information can confuse the reader and detract from the overall message. Each sentence should directly contribute to the main point.
* Stronger Argument: When every sentence supports the topic sentence, the argument becomes more persuasive. The reader sees a clear and logical progression of ideas.
Example:
Topic Sentence: The internet has revolutionized the way we communicate.
Supporting Sentences:
* Sentence 1: Email, instant messaging, and video conferencing allow for instant communication across vast distances.
* Sentence 2: Social media platforms connect people with shared interests and provide a platform for sharing ideas and news.
* Sentence 3: Online forums and discussion groups facilitate collaborative conversations on a wide range of topics.
Important Note: While every sentence should support the topic sentence, it doesn't mean they all have to be directly about the same thing. Supporting sentences can offer different types of support:
* Examples: Illustrate the point with concrete instances.
* Evidence: Provide facts, statistics, or research findings to back up the claim.
* Explanation: Break down the topic sentence and offer a deeper understanding.
In Conclusion: Making sure every sentence in a paragraph supports the topic sentence is crucial for clear, focused, and persuasive writing. It ensures that your ideas are presented in a logical and compelling manner.