1. Topic: Thesis Statements
EQ: What is a thesis statement?

3. controlling impression
the main idea that controls the entire essay
the statement to be supported by the rest of the essay
also called the
thesis
the sentence that gives the author’s opinion on the subject of the essay
can also be called
focus, argument, view, hypothesis

4. thesis Important: must include the subject and the author’s opinion
cannot be all fact
should be in the introductory paragraph, usually last
Important:
Every sentence in the essay should relate to or elaborate on this thesis sentence.

5. Sample Thesis Sentences
(subject plus author’s opinion)
1. Horses are expensive pets to own.
2. Many horses have playful personalities.
3. Horses show love for their owners.
4. Horses helped Americans spread across the country.
5. Horses are the best pets to have.

6. Important:
A statement that is fact (can be proven right or wrong) CANNOT be a thesis sentence.
Elephants are native to Africa and India.
Elephants were used to carry freight.
Elephants have been born in zoos.
Elephants are herbivores.

7. thesis must include the subject and the author’s opinion
Which of the following are appropriate thesis sentences about Coachella Valley High School?
must include the subject and the author’s opinion
cannot be a fact
1. Coachella Valley High School is 108 years old.
2. CVHS is an enjoyable place to be a teacher.
3. CVHS has some of the nicest families in the Coachella Valley.
4. CVHS defeated Desert Mirage in football.
5. CVHS will defeat Desert Mirage again next year.
6. CVHS offers many educational opportunities for motivated students.

8. Now practice writing your own thesis sentences.
(You must add your opinion to these subjects.)
Choose two:
1. Bell Game
2. P.E.
3. CVHS
4. CVHS cafeteria food
5. The movie, __________,
6. English class