Activity 4: Read the following paragraphs.

Decide each of the underlined,

numbered sentences a good supporting sentence or an unrelated sentence on the
corresponding lines below the paragraph. (One sentence in each paragraph is
irrelevant to the topic.) Write a reason for each choice.
Remember: All the supporting sentences must be related to the topic sentence. The
first paragraph has been done for you.
Advantages of Space Programs
The importance of space programs can be seen in the technology that is used
on the daily basis. (1) Satellite technology allows people to watch TV shows and
listen to radio programs from every place on earth. Also, many of the advances in
computer technology were first invented to support space exploration. (2) For
example, The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has
contributed to the creation of software that people use every day in manufacturing
and design. Robotics technology is another famous example. Engineers designed
robots to work on the International Space Station, but now robots are being
developed to do jobs here on Earth. (3) Even with all these advances, some people
say that space exploration is an expensive luxury that takes money away from
important programs such as health care and education. Therefore, space exploration
can be said to contribute to the development of civilization.
(1) good supporting It is an example of how space programs contribute to
sentence television and radio technology.
(2) good supporting It is an example of how space programs contribute to
sentence manufacturing and design technology.
(3)unrelated It is unrelated to how space programs contribute to
sentence technology.
Underwater Adventure
Snorkeling can be one of the most amazing adventures you can ever take
part in. (1) Floating on the water and watching the fish swim below you is a
unique experience. It is normal to be nervous in the beginning, but once you are in
the water, the anxiety goes away as you slowly notice the new world around you.
Coral reefs are the best places to snorkel because hundreds, sometimes thousands,
of fish and other sea creatures live among the coral. (2) Depending on where you
snorkel, you can see tiny squids, turtles, sea cucumbers, lobsters, and many other
animals. (3) I saw a shark the last time I was snorkeling, and it really scared me. It
is truly a beautiful sight, one that you can hardly believe is happening. The world
you know is blocked out when you are underwater, and the silence makes the
overall experience more magical. If you want to have one of the most beautiful
experiences that anyone can ever have, you should try snorkeling for a day.
(1)

(2)

(3)

Sweet Dreams
When people have a hard time falling asleep at night, there are three things
that they can do to relax before going to sleep. (1) One of the most pleasant ways
to relax is to imagine a beautiful and peaceful place. This requires a creative mind,
but it is very effective. Another common method is to practice deep-breathing
exercises. These rhythmic exercises are good for getting rid of the tension that
causes people to stay awake. (2) A third method is to listen to relaxing music,
especially soft musk. (3) Soft music is also popular because it helps students study
better. Some people have developed unique ways to help them fall asleep, but
these three methods are extremely effective for the majority of people with sleep
problems.
(1)

(2)

(3)

b) Ways to Develop Supporting Sentences

A paragraph that leaves too many questions unanswered, too many claims
 unsupported, or too many ideas unillustrated will not be effective. By adding
details, facts, and examples through asking and answering questions of who,
what, where, when, why, or how, you can turn a relatively unconvincing
paragraph into an interesting and persuasive one.
Activity 5: Complete the following outline by raising and answering, starting
with who? what? where? when? why? or how? questions. If you cannot think of
four questions, brainstorm some ideas with a classmate.
1. Topic Sentence - Computerized learning programs have made a big difference in
movies over the last few years.
a. ______________________________________________________________
b. ______________________________________________________________
c. ______________________________________________________________
d. ______________________________________________________________
2. Topic Sentence: To learn a foreign language successfully requires determination
and strategies.
a. ______________________________________________________________
b. ______________________________________________________________
d. ______________________________________________________________