1. Thesis Statement
is a fancy term for a one sentence summary of what the main purpose or point of your paper.

2. A thesis statement . . . is very specific.
lets your reader know early on exactly what your essay is going to be about, and it also keeps you focused on your essay's main point.
needs to be related to the thesis statement.
must place your thesis statement in your introduction.
is very specific.
It is not just a general statement.
A general statement is too hard to write a good essay about.

3. A thesis is… a road map for the reader Controlling idea of the essay
arguable
takes a stand
specific, focused
a road map for the reader
Controlling idea of the essay
avoids first person – I
Subject + Opinion

4. Examples
The life of Christopher Columbus had a lasting impact on the world.
Christopher Columbus was an explorer.
The deserts of the world have many things in common, but their differences are what makes them special.
I am going to tell you about the deserts of the world.
NOT
NOT

5. Which is a thesis statement?
A. I would like to become a chef when I finish school.
B. Although both chefs and cooks can prepare fine meals, chefs differ from cooks in education, professional commitment, and artistry.
And the answer is B.

6. Which is a thesis statement?
A. Hip hop music offers urban youth an important opportunity for artistic expression, and allows them to articulate the poetry of the street.
B. Hip hop music is the best thing that has happened to music in twenty years.
And the answer is A.

7. Write an essay about your name.
Paragraph 1:  Introduction –
Introduce the reader to your topic
Names in general
Your names
Include a thesis
SUBJECT + OPINION
My name _________ is unique because my parents chose it for me.
Although my name________ is not unique, it is to me because my parents chose it for me.

8. Paragraph 2: Parent interview
(Why did your parents choose your name?) Research on (meaning and origin of your name) from the internet website provided
You may want to add other elements to your essay.
A.  Nickname
B.  Middle name
C.  Famous people with your name
D.  Opinion and feeling.  What do you like/dislike or want to change about your name?

9. Paragraph 3: Last Paragraph:
Summary or conclusion, including "Does my name suit me?"  Reaction/comments on research information.