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A Closer Look at Ideas

Every piece of writing needs a topic—the person, place, event, or idea that the writing focuses on. The writing also needs many smaller ideas that support the topic.

• The topic is the big idea in your writing. Choose an interesting topic that fits your writing assignment.
  

  Topic: Dog sled ride

• Details tell about your topic. Include many different details to make your writing interesting and fun to read.
  

  Detail: Eight dogs barked along the tow line.

  Detail: Mom nestled in the sled and I stood next, with the musher behind. . . .

Sharing Your Ideas

Strong sentences and specific words help you share ideas.