Category 1
Write a thesis statement for an argumentative essay on the topic of school uniforms.
School uniforms have no place in twenty-first century learning because...
What is one common writing error when it comes to thesis statements?
Only debating one side.
Not having enough information to back your research.
"Procrastination is not always a bad trait when it comes to school."
Is this thesis statement strong enough to stand?
No because it cannot be logically argued from two sides.
Which of the following is the best thesis statement?
1. All four-year olds should attend pre-school.
2. preschool is a fun activity for toddlers.
3. Do you think pre-school should be required?
4. Some people want to send their kids to pre-school; others don't think it's necessary.
Option 1 is the only argument that can be debated.
Write a thesis statement for an argumentative essay on cheating in schools.
Cheating in school is worse than it was twenty years ago.
Some people argue that sports fans go too far; still, others think fans are just being loyal.
Is this a strong thesis statement?
This thesis statement explains both sides of the argument, so it's not a strong argumentative thesis statement.
Identify common errors when it comes to writing thesis statements.
Answers can vary.
Which of the following is NOT an effective thesis statement, and why?
1. Classic literature is outdated and no longer deserves a place in high school English curriculums.
2. Classic literature will always be relevant to teens.
3. Classic literature is extremely boring.
4. Classic literature should be taught in high school.
#3 is more of an opinion that cannot be logically supported with research.
Explain how to transform this thesis statement.
"I believe reading and math should be taught in PE because it would be effective and engaging for students who are not athletic."
Eliminate the "I believe that" and the opinion based words like 'effective' and 'engaging'.
Explain how to transform this thesis statement.
"Many students can grade their teachers."
An argument needs to be presented. For example: "Students should or should not be able to evaluate their teachers."
Is this thesis statement effective?
"Smoking should be illegal in America because of its detrimental health effects not only on those who partake but also on those who inhale the secondary smoke."
This thesis explains both sides of the argument, so it's not a strong argumentative thesis statement.
Which of the following is NOT an effective thesis statement, and why?
1. Students are obsessed with their smart phones.
2. Students should be required to take hand- written notes in high school.
3. Schools should punish students for bullying on social media.
4. While some disagree, the U.S. should use money to develop living spaces on Mars.
#4 because it talks about both sides of the argument.
Explain 3 things you have learned about thesis statements for argumentative essays.
Answers will vary.
Where in an essay is the thesis statement typically located?
The last sentence of the introduction paragraph.
What is the difference between a thesis statement and an essay topic?
The thesis statement is an argument narrowed from the general topic of the essay.
A topic might be 'food'. The thesis might be: Vending machines should be removed from lunch rooms.
What is the difference between a thesis statement and a topic sentence?
A thesis statement is the main point of the entire essay.
A topic sentence is the main point of one paragraph that supports the thesis statement. It's a reason why.