To test to see whether you have good Topic Sentences, go through the following checklist:
1. Does the Topic Sentence directly answer the sub-question?
Read the sub-question again and then the Topic Sentence. If the Topic Sentence directly answers the question, it is a good Topic Sentence.
2. Does the Topic Sentence provide specific details to answer the question.
A good Topic Sentence gives specific information that helps answer the question. The is usually preceded by words such as "because", "due to", or "as a result of".
"Castles fell into disuse as a result of development of gunpowder artillery because the new technology took away the advantages the defenders had enjoyed."