Topic sentence – How to write a topic sentence in IELTS Writing Task 2?

Topic Sentence = topic + main content

The topic sentence determines the direction for the following sentences, while the main content in this section will be the specific aspect that needs to be developed and clarified.

How to Find a Topic Sentence?

The main idea or topic sentence is usually found in one sentence, a word, or a phrase that encapsulates the main idea of the entire paragraph. In most cases, the primary idea is in the first sentence of the paragraph. However, depending on the writing style, some may place the topic sentence in the middle or at the end of the paragraph.

Criteria for Writing a Topic Sentence

To master how to write a topic sentence in an essay, you first need to understand the criteria for writing a topic sentence. Below are some key points you should achieve in an IELTS Writing Task 2:

• Main Idea: The topic sentence must express the main idea or purpose of the paragraph.
• Clarity: The topic sentence should be written clearly and understandably to help the reader grasp the content the paragraph is addressing.
• Conciseness: The topic sentence should be concise to visually and easily convey the main point of the paragraph.
• Placement: The topic sentence is typically placed at the beginning of the paragraph to help the reader easily recognize the main theme of the paragraph.
• Cohesion: The topic sentence should connect well with the ideas within the paragraph to help the reader understand the structure of the paragraph and the ideas related to the main theme.

How to Write a Topic Sentence in English?

The structures commonly used to write a topic sentence include:

• Asking a Question: Pose a question about the topic and answer it within the paragraph, aiding the reader’s understanding of the topic.
• Making Comparisons: Use this structure to compare different issues or aspects of the topic.
• Summarizing: Sum up the topic or purpose of the paragraph concisely, helping the reader understand the main point of the paragraph.
• Emphasizing: Use keywords or phrases to highlight the main point of the paragraph.
• Analyzing: Break down and present different parts of the topic, aiding the reader’s understanding of its complexity.
• Arguing: Use arguments to present the main point of the paragraph and persuade the reader of the author’s viewpoint.
• Describing distinctive features: Describe the distinctive features of the subject or event to help readers visualize and understand it better.

Depending on the topic and the purpose of the paragraph, writers may use one or more of these structures to write an appropriate topic sentence.

Common Mistakes in Writing Topic Sentences

During IELTS Writing preparation, learners often make the following three common mistakes:

• The topic sentence fails to reiterate the central theme of the essay.
• The topic sentence lacks a concise overview of the paragraph’s content.
• The topic sentence does not directly advance the writer’s perspective presented in the thesis statement.

Examples of Topic Sentence

Below are some examples of how to use structures to write topic sentences in English:

1. Question:

– What are the benefits of regular exercise? Regular exercise can help improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

– How does technology affect human communication? Technology has changed how we communicate and may have positive and negative effects on our relationships.

2. Comparisons:

– Compared to traditional classrooms, online learning offers greater flexibility and convenience for students

– The benefits of biking over driving include cost savings, reduced traffic congestion, and improved physical health.

3. Summarizing:

– The main goal of this research study is to investigate the effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive function.

– In this essay, I will discuss the major causes and consequences of climate change.

4. Emphasizing:

– Increasing access to quality education is essential for promoting social and economic development in underprivileged communities.

– Renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power are becoming increasingly popular as a means of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability.

5. Analyzing:

– The global tourism industry can be divided into several key segments, including adventure travel, cultural tourism, and ecotourism.

– The human brain is composed of several distinct regions, each responsible for different cognitive functions such as memory, language, and perception.

6. Arguing:

– The death penalty is a controversial issue, with arguments both for and against its use in the criminal justice system.

– The government has a responsibility to address the issue of income inequality through policies that promote greater economic equality and social mobility.

7. Distinctive Features:

– The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder that is characterized by its dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, and stunning vistas.

– Jazz music is known for its improvisational style, complex harmonies, and distinctive rhythms.

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