What is a support sentence?

Answer 1

Every paragraph needs a topic sentence. The topic sentence is usually (but not always) the first sentence of the paragraph.

The topic sentence gives the reader an idea of what the paragraph is going to be about. The supporting sentences need to be about the idea presented in the topic sentence. In a paragraph, every sentence should support the topic sentence. If a sentence does not support the main idea of the paragraph, it does not belong in that paragraph and it should be moved to a new paragraph.

Here is an example of a properly written paragraph with a topic sentence and supporting details.

We had a wonderful vacation! We visited my grand parents' home for the holiday. There we met all my cousins, aunts, and uncles. We ate good food and played a lot. We went shopping and sightseeing. I didn't feel like coming back!

In the above paragraph, "We had a wonderful vacation!" is the topic sentence as it gives the main idea of the paragraph. All other sentences support the topic sentence.

Directions: Read the following topic sentences. For each of these topic sentences, write three or four supporting sentences.

1. I like to collect coins (or anything else that you like!).

2. This weekend I helped my parents with chores.

3. Our principal, Mr. B. told us about the upcoming school events.

4. I love my new bicycle!

5. After school today, we are planning to play foot ball.

6. When I grow up, I want to be ______.

Answer 2

Supports authors claim