Page 178 - Wordsmith A Guide to College Writing
P. 178
Direction: Shaping the Topic
Sentences of Body Paragraphs
2 Explain what gives a body paragraph
direction.
A thesis statement gives an essay its overall direction and
sometimes provides a road map for the reader by listing points. The
topic sentences extend that function by charting each leg of the
journey as the essay moves through each body paragraph. Each topic
sentence outlines one thesis point, providing direction for each body
paragraph.
Functions of the Topic Sentence of
a Body Paragraph
1. The topic sentence of a body paragraph provides a thesis link
by mentioning the general subject of the essay.
