Writing
Topic Sentence Practice
Read the short paragraph next to each picture. Identify the one sentence that isn't on exactly the same topic as the other sentences. The correct answers will turn blue when you click on them.
Write a topic sentence for each paragraph. Identify whether each paragraph includes facts, opinions, or both. When you are finished, click the Submit button to see possible answers.
Paragraph 1
The first recommendation is that Musa should not text while he is driving. Second, he should look ahead at the road. Third, he should place both hands on the steering wheel. Fourth, he should not wear his watch on his right wrist. Finally, he should keep his eyes on the road.
Topic Sentence:
Possible topic sentences:
- Here are four recommendations for safe driving.
- Musa should follow this advice when he is driving.
The paragraph includes both facts and opinions.
Paragraph 2
One of the dangers on country roads is wildlife. Drivers should look out for moose. Crashing into this large animal can damage a car or injure a person. Another danger is unmarked lanes. Lane lines are yellow or white. Drivers shouldn’t drive in the middle of the road. They should stay to the right. Drivers may run into danger when they aren’t familiar with the signs. They shouldn’t speed. It’s a good idea to slow down at all corners.
Topic Sentence:
Possible topic sentences:
- Driving in the country can be dangerous.
- Country driving has different dangers than city driving.
- Drivers should be careful when driving in the countryside.
The paragraph includes both facts and opinions.
Paragraph 3
Sue should have put on her makeup at home. She definitely should not have put on makeup in the car. She should have used a bathroom mirror; she shouldn’t have used the rear-view mirror. The mirror shouldn’t be so small. If Sue had focused on driving, she wouldn’t have hit the power pole. She said, “I should have known better.”
Topic Sentence:
Possible topic sentences:
- One woman learned a hard lesson while driving.
- Sue has regrets about her driving accident.
- There are several things Sue would do differently if she could.
The paragraph includes both facts and opinions.
Paragraph 4
I was going to pick up my kids from school. The light ahead of me was green. My phone rang. You should hear the cool ring tone. My buddy was calling. As I answered it, I saw my daughter running toward me. I was listening to my friend. I should not have been listening to him. I was looking to the left. I should have been looking straight ahead. I rear-ended the car in front of me. There are no excuses for what I did.
Topic Sentence:
Possible topic sentences:
- Here is a description of my mistake and how I should have avoided it.
- There are some things drivers should and shouldn't do.
The paragraph includes both facts and opinions.