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PLEASE DO NOW: • In the “Writing Assignment” section of your notebook:If someone were to write an expository essay about you, what would be three traits he/she might use in the thesis statement to explain the type of person you are?For example:(Your Name) is a great (friend? student? sister? citizen? ) because _________, _________, and ___________.
THE THESIS STATEMENT Learning Goal: To be able to identify, create and critique a thesis statement
QUESTIONS • What is a thesis statement? • What is its purpose in an academic essay?
What is a Thesis Statement? • Captures the main idea of your paper • Takes a stand or position on the topic • Provides the reader with a blueprint of what’s to come in the paper • Usually the last sentence of the introduction
QUESTION: • Have you ever been daunted by the process of writing a thesis statement?
Creating a Thesis Statement:BASIC FORMULA TOPIC + OPINION + REASON(S) WHY = THESIS STATEMENT
Developing a Thesis • First write down your topic. • Then write down opinion/stance on it. • Provide your reasoning.
Developing a Thesis • First write down your topic. Having a part-time job in high school. 2. Then write down opinion/stance on it. Students should have a part-time job during high school. 3. Provide your reasoning. Students should have a part-time job during high school because it teaches them financial responsibility.
The Thesis Test • Is it specific? • Can it be argued? • Is it interesting?
From Topic to Thesis: • TOPIC: Controlling the pet population through spaying and neutering. • TOPIC + OPINION + REASON(S) = THESIS • THESIS: Controlling the pet population through spaying and neutering is very important because it helps prevent the birth of unwanted and neglected animals. • TEST: Specific? Arguable? Interesting?
PRACTICE: Good, bad or mediocre thesis statement? Why? • The death penalty is wrong. • Technology has changed our lives dramatically. • Violent crimes are on the rise. • Participating in volunteer work is beneficial because it helps develop strong character.
Thesis Statement:The Three-Prong Approach Main Argument/Position Lists 3 main reasonswithin your thesis statement that support your main position Sets up a logical outline of your entire paper Each supporting point becomes a topic sentence within the body of the paper Example: Practicing ballet can benefit any athlete because it improves flexibility, increases agility, and instills self-discipline.
Example:Three-Pronged Thesis Students should have a part-time job during high school because it helps build character, teaches financial responsibility and prepares them for the future.
Your Turn:Three-Pronged Thesis • Participating in volunteer work is beneficial because...
GROUP WORK: • In groups of 3-4, create a three-pronged thesis statement on the topic provided. • Test and score your thesis:
GROUP WORK TOPICS Create a three-pronged thesis statement for the following topics • SCHOOL UNIFORMS • VIDEO GAME VIOLENCE • TEXTING AND DRIVING • ANIMAL TESTING • GOING TO COLLEGE • STEROID USE IN SPORTS
Summary Activity • Write a 3-pronged thesis statement about your partner.