Writing Thesis Statements

What is the purpose of a thesis statement?

• To be a pretty sentence
• To be a sentence in your introduction
• To introduce your paper to the reader
• To explain what your essay will be about

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.6

CCSS.W.7.1A

CCSS.W.7.2A

The purpose of a persuasive or argumentative essay is to...

• to provide information to readers.

• to convince readers that a certain viewpoint is right.

• to paint a picture in words for readers.

• to tell a story.

Tags

CCSS.W.6.1A

CCSS.W.6.1B

CCSS.W.6.1C

CCSS.RI.6.6

When writing your THESIS STATEMENT, you should...

• use lots of big words.

• be sure to state your position clearly.

• just restate the prompt.

• provide instructions for how to read your essay.

Tags

CCSS.W.6.1A

CCSS.W.6.1B

CCSS.W.6.2A

Where should a thesis statement appear?

• first paragraph
• anywhere in the essay
• last paragraph
• the first sentence of every paragraph

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.8

CCSS.RI.7.8

CCSS.RI.8.8

CCSS.RL.11-12.5

CCSS.RI.11-12.8

What should you avoid in your thesis statement?

• Facts

• Picking a side

• Using "I" or "me" or "my"

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.8

CCSS.RI.7.8

CCSS.RI.8.8

CCSS.RL.11-12.5

CCSS.RI.11-12.5

A thesis should NEVER

• ask a question

• give two reasons

• state your opinion

• be short and to the point

A thesis should never...

• say, "This paper will be about"

• have reasons to support the claim

Tags

CCSS.W.6.1A

CCSS.W.6.1B

CCSS.W.6.1C

CCSS.RI.6.8

Rylee is writing a argumentative essay about school uniforms. Which answer BEST represents a strong thesis statement?

• School uniforms can be found in many environments like public and private schools.

• School uniforms have a negative impact on students because uniforms restrict individuality, are expensive, and are uncomfortable.

• School uniforms restrict individuality.

• School uniforms can be both good and bad.

Tags

CCSS.W.6.1A

CCSS.W.6.1B

Which of the following is a better thesis statement?

• The recycling of one aluminum can save enough energy to run a TV for three hours.

• Recycling is one of the most important jobs a person can do to protect our environment.

Tags

CCSS.W.6.1A

CCSS.W.6.1B

CCSS.W.6.4