1. What is a Thesis Statement?

2. The thesis statement is the part of a writing piece that explains the purpose of what you are writing.

3. First Define the main idea of your essay. The main idea is the general subject your thesis statement will be about. Maybe you are planning to write about soccer.

4. Next Narrow down the main idea to a more specific topic. For example, instead of writing about soccer, write about the benefits of playing soccer.

5. Then Add an opinion to the main idea. A solid thesis statement includes a point that you can argue. By researching, you can gather evidence to prove this point in your essay. Soccer is a great form of exercise.

6. So… a thesis statement is my opinion. But, with the right evidence, in my writing, I can try to persuade you to agree with me.

7. Let’s see if you can craft a few thesis statements… With the post-it you and your partner are given, try to craft 2 or 3 thesis statements. Yes, they should be opinions, but they need to be able to be researched. For example, stay away from “Surfing is fun!”

8. Possible Ideas to Try… Let’s Stay Away From… Kelly Slater is a world- renown surfer. Surfing is fun! Chicago is a city filled with adventure. I love Chicago! Many children are faced with bullying in and out of school. Bullying hurts children. The Bahamas is a family- filled vacation island! The Bahamas is a good place to visit.

9. Homework MSJ: Type 1: 4 interests Write down four topics that are of interest to you.