1. What is the difference between a thesis statement and a topic sentence? A thesis statement is a sentence that expresses the main idea or argument of an essay or paper. It usually appears at the end of the introduction and guides the rest of the writing. A topic sentence is a sentence that introduces the main point or sub-argument of a paragraph. It usually appears at the beginning of the paragraph and supports the thesis statement. 2. What are some strategies for writing an effective introduction? Some strategies for writing an effective introduction are: - Provide some background information or context for your topic. - Establish your purpose and audience for writing. - Hook the reader's attention with a question, anecdote, quotation, statistic, or surprising fact. - Preview your main points or outline your argument. - State your thesis statement clearly and concisely. 3. What are some types of transitions and how do they help connect ideas in a text? Transitions are words or phrases that show the relationship between sentences, paragraphs, or sections of a text. They help connect ideas in a logical and coherent way. Some types of transitions are: - Time transitions, such as first, next, then, after, before, etc., that show the order or sequence of events or actions. - Cause-effect transitions, such as because, therefore, as a result, consequently, etc., that show the reason or outcome of something. - Contrast transitions, such as however, but, on the other hand, nevertheless, etc., that show the difference or opposition between two or more things. - Addition transitions, such as also, moreover, furthermore, in addition, etc., that show the similarity or continuation of something. - Example transitions, such as for example, for instance, such as, etc., that show an illustration or evidence of something. 4. What are some characteristics of academic writing? Some characteristics of academic writing are