Name:_______________________________________________
Can you debate this topic?
Imagine that each of these is supposed to be a topic sentence for a paragraph. Which
sentences work? Please write strong, so-so or weak next to each example based on how well
the sentence sets up “arguments people can actually invest in and discuss”? Briefly explain
each score you have given (example: factual/cannot be debated, etc.)
1. _________ While many characters influence Clay, Anneth influences him the most.
2. _________ Clay’s Quilt is set in Appalachia.
3. _________Silas House wants readers to understand that Clay senses God’s presence on
the mountain.
4. _________Clay and his dad probably have different opinions on coal and mining.
5. _________House uses several images in Clay’s Quilt.
6. _________People have different opinions on coal.
7. _________Although Clay’s Quilt is set in Appalachia, the characters’ personalities make
the book interesting to audiences beyond this region.
8. _________Clay moves away from his family.
9. _________In Clay’s Quilt Silas House perpetuates unfortunate stereotypes of Kentuckians.
10. _________Silas House effectively shatters many stereotypes of Kentuckians.
11. _________ In Clay’s Quilt, the setting functions like another character.
12. _________Clay’s Quilt contains characters like Clay, Cake and Alma.