Prime Time 7, Coursebook plus Semester Self-checks

Paragraph writing: Topic sentences You use paragraphs to divide your writing into parts. A paragraph begins on a new line and usually deals with a single idea or topic (= an argument) that supports your thesis. a) Complete the first two charts below with your own ideas for topic sentences. Then work on your own topic in the third chart and add a thesis and at least three topic sentences. Topic Thesis Topic sentence 1. Teenage conflicts Conflicts with parents are essential for growing up. 2. 3. Without such conflicts young people will never become adults. Topic Thesis Topic sentence 1. Peer groups Peer groups are necessary for adolescents. 2. 3. Topic Thesis Topic sentence 1. 2. 3. b) Write a topic sentence for the paragraphs below. 1. Developing positive feelings about pets can make a child feel better about themselves and increase self-confidence. Thus, positive relationships with pets can help in the development of trusting relationships with others. Consequently, a good relationship with a pet can also help in developing non-verbal communication, compassion and empathy. Your child, too, may profit from a pet. 2. For example, bad grades at school make them feel like they are stupid. Similarly, at home teens may be compared to brothers or sisters, which can also make them feel bad about themselves. In today’s world looks and fashion are very important and it is difficult for teens to keep up. If they think that they are not “in”, teens could also have negative feelings about themselves. It is not easy being a teenager, but friends can help you through the hard times. c) Write a topic sentence for each of the paragraphs of your own essay on friendship (see prompt in step 1: “Life without friends is not worth living”). 4  Tip • • Make sure that each paragraph only covers one aspect of the topic. • • Start each paragraph with a topic sentence to present your idea. • • Add supporting sentences to underpin your argument, e. g. descriptions, examples, explanations. T 173 Nur zu Prüfzwecken – Eigentum des Verlags öbv