For example, one of the most common patterns in academic writing is outlined below. Topic sentence. A topic sentence introduces the main point of the paragraph. It should contain a main idea and a controlling idea which support the thesis statement and unify the content of the paragraph.
Examples of Controlling Ideas. Here is an example of a controlling idea at a topic sentence level: Topic sentence: In order to effectively control a country's population, the government must have a well-developed system of birth registration. Controlling idea: "system of birth registration"
In the topic sentences provided in the other examples on the previous page, the controlling ideas are: The subjection of children to forced labour through trafficking has age and gender dimensions. The ILO alone cannot respond to all the recommendations of the Commission's report.
A good topic sentence usually states an opinion or attitude that can be supported by details and examples. A good topic sentence is specific enough to be clear and interesting. A good topic sentence gives a definite direction to a paragraph. Provided by the Academic Center for Excellence Controlling Idea / Topic Sentences Reviewed June 2008
Controlling statement examples like, "Colorado has the most beautiful mountains" is an opinion. Someone may think that Montana or Tennessee has more beautiful mountains. Asking "how do you know?" can help identify the controlling idea of an opinion-based topic sentence. Identifying lists requires a "What are…" question.
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topic sentence and controlling idea examples
