A topic sentence gives a paragraph direction. It should be broad enough to cover all the details but focused enough that the reader knows what the paragraph will explain. Fourth graders often choose a topic sentence that is only one detail, such as the final fact in the paragraph, or a sentence so broad that it could introduce almost anything. This worksheet gives sets of three details and asks students to write the sentence that holds those details together.
Parents should ask whether every detail fits under the topic sentence. If one detail does not fit, the sentence may be off focus. If the topic sentence gives away only one detail, it is probably too narrow. The first sentence should guide the whole paragraph.
What your child will learn
Write a topic sentence that covers every detail
Avoid copying one detail as the topic sentence
Keep a topic sentence focused, not too broad
Check a topic sentence against all the details
Common Core standard: W.4.2.A
Worked example
Details about mittens, a thick coat, and boots need a topic sentence such as 'Warm clothes protect us in cold weather,' not only 'Mittens keep fingers warm.'
Common mistake
Choosing a true detail as the topic sentence even though it cannot cover the whole paragraph.
Helpful hint
The topic sentence should act like an umbrella for every detail.
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