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Paragraph Structure:Topic Sentence
 
     

Structure 
Unity/Coherence/Development
Topic sentence Supporting sentence

Like we have said in the previous page one has to bear the correct structure of a paragraph in mind as they write and adhere to it. Just like an essay a paragraph has a set structure. It is made up of a topic sentence, supporting sentences and a concluding sentence. These should always be part of your paragraphs. Let us look closer at each one of these.

What is a topic sentence?
This is sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. It can also be called a controlling sentence.This sentence announces the theme of the paragraph and states the main idea/thesis of a paragraph and indicates the major support areas for your essay. This sentence can appear anywhere in the paragraph but it is advisable to put it at the beginning of the paragraph as it helps to guide and direct the reader. In
academic writing, the topic sentence nearly always works best at the beginning of a paragraph since it enables the reader to know what to expect. Avoid keeping the readers guessing what your paragraph is about. The first and last paragraphs of an essay could be exempted from this rule because in both instances readers already know what you are leading up to. Here you can save the topic sentence to make a strong paragraph ending.

How do I write a topic sentence?
By summarising the main idea of your paragraph or by indicating to the reader what your paragraph will be about.

Example:

There are three main reasons that have lead to the spread of HIV\AIDS in Africa. First, monogamy has been embraced by many societies. This means multiple sex partners without protection. Secondly, poverty due to the recent drought spell in many countries. Finally, religious practices that do not allow for protection or any kind of contraception. This much dreaded disease has spread like wildfire, wiping the nation. ( This paragraph will be used to illustrate the whole paragraph structure)

As illustrated in the above paragraph the first blue sentence, which is the topic sentence indicates that 3 reasons will be discussed. These follow thereafter.  

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