Learning Lab

Activity

Test your skills! Try this short quiz to see if you can identify the most appropriate topic sentence for the paragraph.

The missing sentence will be wrapped in [ ]. Read the sentence and at the end, select the sentence you think is correct.

Exercise 1

[ ]In China, tea is usually drunk without milk or sugar in small cups. In Arab countries, tea is usually flavoured with mint leaves and sugar. However, in India tea is taken with both milk and sugar. Tea is now a popular drink worldwide.

1. Tea is a healthy and refreshing drink.
2. Tea is taken in a variety of ways in different countries.
3. Tea is important part of the global economy.

Correct answer: 2

[Tea is taken in a variety of ways in different countries.]In China, tea is usually drunk without milk or sugar in small cups. In Arab countries, tea is usually flavoured with mint leaves and sugar. However, in India tea is taken with both milk and sugar. Tea is now a popular drink worldwide.

Exercise 2

[ ]Thirty years ago, most Australians ate a typical Northern European diet. Since the 1960's, immigrants have brought their food knowledge with them and shared it with Australians. Australian diets now strongly reflect those styles of cooking.

1. The Australian diet has changed dramatically to the influences of immigration.
2. The Australian diet is now more interesting and healthy than before.
3. New migrants have imported new foods to Australia.

Correct answer: 1

[The Australian diet has changed dramatically to the influences of immigration.]Thirty years ago, most Australians ate a typical Northern European diet. Since the 1960's, immigrants have brought their food knowledge with them and shared it with Australians. Australian diets now strongly reflect those styles of cooking.

Exercise 3

[ ]Good office systems ensure the work is done efficiently. They also enable clear procedures and communications. These help to maintain good relationships in the office. Most importantly, they enable each worker to clearly understand what is required.

1. A well-run office is one where staff respect each other.
2. Good organisation is the basis of a well-run office.
3. Happy staff make an effecient office.

Correct answer: 1

[A well-run office is one where staff respect each other.]Good office systems ensure the work is done efficiently. They also enable clear procedures and communications. These help to maintain good relationships in the office. Most importantly, they enable each worker to clearly understand what is required.