2. The Roadmap of Your Essay The Thesis Statement

3. Introduction By the end of our lesson today, you will: Have a better understanding of a thesis statement Know how to identify a thesis statement Write a thesis statement.

4. Definition Thesis Statement The thesis statement is one sentence that tells the main idea of an entire essay. Throughout the body of the essay you will support your thesis statement. Can you find the thesis statement in the following examples?

5. Definition Thesis Statement Since I was a little girl, I’ve always been a teacher. Being the oldest made me the teacher and the student of many lessons that I would later have to teach my younger siblings. Teaching requires a person’s full attention. It also demands an extreme amount of patience. Being a teacher warrants a full commitment from the teacher. Teaching is a demanding, yet rewarding job. Thesis Statement: This last sentence states the main idea of the essay.

6. Thesis Statement Another Example Studies show that teenagers would benefit from a later school start. A later school start could mean more time for students and teachers to rest. This could also mean that teachers are more productive and could plan better lessons to engage their students in learning. Finally, a later start in school gives parents more time in the morning with their children. Middle and high schools should begin later in the morning to allow greater success in the school system. Thesis Statement: The main idea of the essay is school should begin later.

7. Key Features Thesis Statement Answers the prompt States the main idea in a complete sentence, not a question Usually, but not always, at the end of an introduction

8. Key Features Answers the Prompt PromptStudent Responses Writing Situation: There has been a problem in local schools with discipline and violence. Your school board has decided to institute a school uniform policy in order to cut down on these problems, based on the positive examples that they have seen at other schools. Consider the issue of school uniforms. What is your position on this issue? Directions for Writing: Write a persuasive essay to giving reasons for our position on the school uniform issue. School uniforms are not connected to violence. The introduction of school uniforms may decrease violence, however, there may be other detrimental effects as a result of this new policy. Does not answer the prompt completely Answers the prompt

9. Key Features The Main Idea is a Complete Sentence The sport of basketball. Why is writing the best subject? The sport of basketball is an engaging sport that everyone should learn to play. Writing is a very challenging subject, yet rewarding because one can express himself on paper to convince others. THIS IS NOT A SENTENCE. THESIS STATEMENT THIS IS A QUESTION, NOT A STATEMENT. THESIS STATEMENT

10. A COMPLETE SENTENCE Another Example Marcus Garvey and the Harlem Renaissance. What is the problem with big cities? Marcus Garvey’s ability to rally people behind a cause, to make speeches, and to defend civil rights makes him arguably the most important figure of the Harlem Renaissance. The problem of pollution in major cities can be alleviated by limiting the number of cars allowed to drive on city streets and creating more efficient public transportation systems. THIS IS NOT A SENTENCE. THESIS STATEMENT THIS IS QUESTION, NOT A STATEMENT. THESIS STATEMENT

11. Key Features- Location Your reader likes to know what the essay is going to be about early on in the essay rather than the end of the essay. Due to this, the thesis statement is always in the introduction of the essay.

12. KEY FEATURES LOCATION In America, freedom of expression is a right that our forefathers fought foe. Lunch is a social time for students where they can express themselves with their friends. It is also a time when students don’t have to talk about school. Finally, allowing students to express themselves in lunch allows for less off-topic discussion during classes. Silent lunch is a violation of students’ first amendment rights and is not an acceptable solution the loud noise in the cafeteria. THESIS STATEMENT

13. Key Features Location Maya Angelou is an accomplished African- American author in the United States. While growing up, she suffered tremendous hardship. Some of her most difficult life events are portrayed in novels and poems such as, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, and, Still I Rise. Her written works often include strong themes such as perseverance through trials, love for family, and passionate optimism. THESIS STATEMENT

14. Do NOT state the obvious! At all costs, you should avoid using “I’m going to write about…” or “This essay will discuss…” in your thesis statements. Try to write the thesis statement in a way that will capture your reader’s attention, but does not state the obvious.

15. Don’t State the Obvious In this essay, I’m going to talk about why students shouldn’t have to wear uniforms. A dress code requiring students to wear uniforms can inhibit student expression, quench creativity, and deter students from enjoying school.

16. Don’t State the Obvious This essay will discuss why teachers should not be permitted to assign homework to students. Homework is a nuisance that causes headaches for teachers, students, and parents and should not be assigned.