Social Studies Writing Initiative A Simple Formula For Thesis Writing

Learning Objective: The WISD Social Studies Department will be aligned with a common method for developing a thesis paragraph so as to improve writing skills and achievement on assessments in both the regular and advanced classroom.

Why do we need to do this? Students need more experience in writing essays. The goal is to develop skills and internalize the process of essay writing. Students need to be able to attack questions methodically and plan answers. Students need to know not to begin any essay before writing a thesis.

Qualities of a Good Thesis! It is to the point or concise. It puts forward your argument. It provides structure or a blueprint for the essay. It must answer or address the prompt!

The Thesis Formula X. However, A,B,C. Therefore, Y.

The Thesis Formula X = A counter factual - identify the other side of the argument. It can be up to 3 sentences.

The Thesis Formula However A, B , C = Organizational categories (groups) that will support Point of View. Groups should be broad…Such as, Economy, Political, Technology Then you can you more specific examples to explain… for example, paper money, the right to vote, and computers

The Thesis Formula Therefore Y = Point of View, Take a Stand! Make your prompt into a statement! Choose a side!

Which superhero is the best? Batman or Superman Practice: Write a thesis statement using the formula discussed based upon the following prompt: Which superhero is the best? Batman or Superman First, make a list for each one based on their strength try to list as many qualities as you can (these will be your examples)

Practice Which superhero is the best? Batman or Superman Second, organize your list into broad groups … For example Money, Powers, Clothing

Write your Thesis Paragraph X, can be up to 3 sentences about the positive qualities about the OPPOSITE superhero that you will be writing about. HOWEVER, name your superhero is better because A (give an example), B (give an example), and C (give an example). Remember A,B,C should be the broad groups THEREFORE, make the prompt into a statement and take a stand on which is the best!