(1) Critique the following topic sentences on the basis of the expectations they create for the reader. For each of the topic sentences below, write a short paragraph which answers the following questions: (a) What type(s) of information would you expect in a paragraph with this topic sentence? (b) Are these expectations clear? (c) How might you improve the topic sentence? Lastly, you should rewrite each topic sentence.
"New advances in electronics are improving our quality of life."
"There are many forms of discrimination in our society and they all have damaging effects."
"Approximately 90 percent of all dieters regain the weight they lost within five years."
"The job of the president is a difficult one."
"Guilt is a negative, unproductive emotion."
(2) Rewrite the following paragraphs so that they are more relevant to their respective topic sentences. Remove any material that is not a part of the main idea stated in the topic sentence, and add material that would be more relevant to the topic sentence. You can make up your own information if needed, and write a second paragraph if needed.
(A) There are many reasons people experience stress, and many steps people can take to reduce the stress in their lives. For example, physical exercise such as jogging, swimming or playing tennis is an excellent way of relieving muscle tension and using up nervous energy. Such exercise also strengthens the heart, improves blood circulation and helps with weight control. Another way to reduce stress is by going deep-breathing exercises each day. Slowing inhaling and exhaling helps the body relax as the mind rids itself of negative thoughts. People who use these methods often experience a feeling of well-being that improves the overall quality of their lives.
(B) There are many excellent exercise machines that are available to the average consumer. Of course, each manufacturer makes extravagant claims for their product. Most promise weight loss, a stronger heart, lower blood pressure, and more energy. Others add claims of reduced stress, delayed aging, increased self-confidence, and relief from back pain. Still others guarantee improved athletic performance, cholesterol control, osteoporosis prevention, and heightened mental ability. Those who aspire to greater fitness can choose from cross-country skiers, rowing machines, stair climbers, and treadmills. A bewildering array of advertisements promise you can burn from 500 to 1000 calories a minute on these machines and achieve cardiovascular fitness in only 20 minutes per session, three times per week. It is difficult to know what claims are true about what products.