The Position of Topic Sentences
The topic sentence is usually (but not always) the first sentence in a paragraph. Experienced writers sometimes put topic sentences in other locations, but the best spot is usually right at the beginning. Readers who are used to the English way of writing want to know what they will read about as soon as they begin reading.
Synonyms, words with the same basic meaning, do not always have the same emotional meaning. For example, stingy and frugal both mean "careful with money." However, calling someone stingy is an insult, but calling someone frugal is usually a compliment. Similarly, a person wants to be slender but not skinny. Therefore, you should be careful in choosing words as many so-called synonyms are not completely synonymous.
At times, a topic sentence comes at the end of the paragraph. In this case, the paragraph might begin with a series of examples or facts. Then the topic sentence at the end would be the conclusion drawn from these examples or facts.
Mediation is now a popular way to solve disagreements between children in school. A mediator can also help a divorcing couple discuss finances or improve communication between employees and company executives. These are a few ways that mediators can help opposing parties come to agreement.