Let’s review! Paragraphs and Essays have 3 parts— ParagraphsEssays Topic sentenceIntroduction (containing thesis statement) Body (details!)Body (details that support thesis) Closing sentenceConclusion An essay is an extension of the one topic paragraph! So, how does that work?

An analogy: Topic sentence is to paragraph as thesis statement is to an essay So...if you were assigned to write a paragraph about the causes of the Civil War, your topic sentence might look like: Although many people think that the Civil War was fought because of slavery, it was actually more complicated. What will this paragraph be about?

Now, if you were given the SAME topic, but had to write an ESSAY, instead of a topic sentence, you would have to write an introductory paragraph. Within the introductory paragraph, you would include a thesis statement (a topic sentence for your essay) Write an essay that discusses the causes of the Civil War Between the years 1861 and 1865, the United States of America engaged in a war between the states; the Civil War. Although many people think that the Civil War was fought primarily because of slavery, it was actually more complicated. The Civil War was fought because of the South’s fear of losing their state’s rights and slavery issues. What will this essay be about? What is the thesis statement? Instead of briefly naming the reasons for the war (as in a paragraph), each body paragraph of this essay will define an explain each individual reason.

That’s all well and good, but how do I write a thesis statement? Writing Thesis Statements An effective thesis statement tells the reader specifically what you plan to write about. In a longer essay or research report, your thesis statement generally comes at the end of your opening/introductory paragraph. How Do I Formulate a Thesis? A thesis statement usually takes a stand or expresses a specific feeling about, or feature of, your topic.

How Do I Formulate a Thesis? (cont.) First, read the prompt. Then, think…list all the ideas that pop into your head that ties back to the prompt: Brainstorm! EXAMPLE: Writing assignment: Write an essay that explains what it means to be a good friend. Specific Topic: Being a good friend Thesis Statement: When you are a good friend, you are loyal and you listen. Have fun Hang out Listen to your problems Share interests loyalty/has your back Helps you with class work

You try! (in your notebook on the left or “reflective/output” side) Writing assignment: Write an essay explaining why a student should study. Specific Topic: studying. Thesis Statement: _______________________________________ _______________________________________ ______________________________________. Writing assignment: Write an essay that explains how to keep healthy. Specific Topic: Keeping healthy Thesis Statement: _______________________________________ _______________________________________ ______________________________________.

To go in your notes (as a GRADED ASSIGNMENT): You will be given 3 prompts. For each topic, you must formulate a possible thesis statement. Remember, use the first three steps on your handout! Prompt (writing assignment): Write an essay explaining why it’s important to never give up. Specific topic: Thesis Statement: Prompt (writing assignment): Write an essay that explains why education is important. Specific topic: Thesis Statement: Prompt (writing assignment): Write an essay that explains what it means to be a hero. Specific topic: Thesis Statement:

THE PLAN: Tomorrow we will use these thesis statements to begin writing introductory paragraphs !