Topic Sentence Practice Worksheets for Enhanced Writing Skills

Did you know that not all topic sentences are created equal? There are actually many different types of topic sentences, each one serving a specific purpose within a piece of writing.

These topic sentence practice worksheets have been created by our team to teach these different types of topic sentences to your students. Through a variety of structured activities, students will learn how to write strong, clear topic sentences in a variety of different styles to enhance their paragraph writing skills. 

The activities in this worksheet pack include:

• Definition Sheet – Lists each topic sentence style and provides an example of each.
• Match the Type – Read each topic sentence and determine its type.
• Change the Style – Read each topic sentence, then rewrite it in the style indicated.
• Sentence Builder – Write a topic sentence for each paragraph in the indicated style.
• Sentence Detective – Underline the topic sentence in each paragraph, then name the type of topic sentence used.
• Write Your Own – Read the topic, then write three different topic sentences using the styles listed.

This resource downloads as a black-and-white PDF or editable Google Slides file. The download also includes an answer key to make grading the worksheets fast and easy. 

By working through these varied tasks, students not only learn what makes an effective topic sentence but also gain exposure to different sentence styles and structures.

Writing Topic Sentences: Why They’re Important

The first sentence of any paragraph is what makes the reader stop and pay attention. This is not going to happen if every paragraph is started in the same, boring way! 

Using different types of topic sentences at the beginning of a paragraph makes writing more engaging, varied and effective. It also ensures that sentences are specifically written to meet their intended purpose.  

Using different types of topic sentences:

• Captures the reader’s attention.
• Adds variety to the text.
• Provides different ways of linking ideas.
• Helps writers adapt their style for different purposes.

Download This Topic Sentence Worksheet Pack

Use the Download button above to access your preferred version of this resource. (Note: You will be prompted to make a copy of the Google Slides template on your personal drive before accessing it.)

As this resource contains answers, you may wish to print one copy only, then remove the answer sheet before making further copies.

For sustainability purposes, please consider printing this worksheet pack double-sided.

This resource was created by Brittany Collins, a teacher in Indiana and a Teach Starter collaborator.

Complement These Worksheets on Topic Sentences

If you’re looking for more engaging topic sentence resources to enhance your students’ writing, you’ve come to the right place! Click below to explore more teacher-created gems to complement your ELA planning.

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