1. What is a Thesis Statement?
1) It describes the main topic the text is about.
2) It introduces a specific opinion being made about that topic which can be supported by facts.
So the formula for a thesis statement is: 
Main Topic + Opinion = Thesis Statement

2. Write down the following example:
“Choosing a college to attend is a complex process that involves researching different schools before making a decision.”
Underline and highlight the two different components in this thesis statement? 

3. Your sentence should look this way:
“Choosing a college to attend is a complex process that involves researching different schools before making a decision."
main topic
opinion

4. 1) The Main Topic of the Essay: “Choosing a college to attend..."
The essay is about choosing a college. 
But there is far to much different information about this, so you have to narrow the information down to one specific opinion.

5. 2) Opinion Made About the Main Topic of the Essay:
"... researching different schools before making a decision. " 
The topic is narrowed down to the researching of different schools. This claim can be supported with facts. Now the topic is more specific and easier to write about.

6. PRACTICE
Underline & highlight the two different components in these thesis statements? 
William Wallace was a hero to Scotland because he died as a martyr and never gave up the fight for freedom.
2. High school is more difficult than junior high because there are greater expectations to achieve higher grades.
3. Solving the planet’s environmental problems will take an organized effort from many different countries.
4. Hunger persists in Botswana because farming in the infertile soil is rarely profitable.

7. PRACTICE Now It’s Your Turn to Create Thesis Statements:
Remember the Formula: Main Topic + Opinion = Thesis Statement
Write a thesis statement about each of the following topics:
Living on a fixed budget
How does music effect moods
Exercise is important
What it’s like having a sibling
Why are teachers strict
Finding a good movie
GPS