4. Avoid run-on sentences. When a sentence goes on and on, it should be broken up into several smaller complete thoughts. Try to avoid using the word “and” over and over in a single sentence.
5. Which one avoids run-ons? a. A squirrel found a nut. He hid it in the ground. Later he went back to find it. He searched everywhere, but it was gone. b. A squirrel found a nut and he hid it in the ground and later he went back to find it and he searched everywhere, but it was gone.
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8. Paragraphs need topic sentences Each paragraph should have one main idea. The topic sentence tells the reader what this paragraph will be about. The topic sentence is usually at the beginning of the paragraph.
9. What would be a good topic sentence for this paragraph? Sandy can roll over. He can also shake hands. My dad taught Sandy to bring him the newspaper from the front porch. Sandy even barks when I say, “Speak!” a. My dog, Sandy, can do many tricks. b. I like dogs and cats. c. I got a new puppy for Christmas. d. My dad is very smart.
10. Keep to the main idea Don’t include any sentences in your paragraph that don’t fit with the topic sentence.
11. Ice cream is my favorite dessert. Which sentence does not belong in a paragraph with this topic sentence? Chocolate ice cream is smooth and creamy. b. I like ice cream with chunks of cookie dough. c. Pumpkin pie is delicious. d. Ice cream is a real treat on a hot day.