1. What is a thesis statement? Why is it important? How do I write one? THESIS STATEMENT

2. What is a thesis statement? A thesis statement is the main idea of an essay. It is often a point you want to argue or support in your essay. It should be a strong and concise single (yet complex) sentence. It is placed at the end of an introductory paragraph.

3. Why is a thesis important? It tells the reader what to expect for the rest of the paper The essay will follow the sequence that you outline in the thesis

4. Examples Superman is my favorite superhero. WRONG Superman is my favorite superhero because of his strength, determination, and agility. BETTER Superman is my favorite superhero because of his superhuman strength, his determination to save the world, and his ability to accomplish all of it while still remaining agile. BEST

5. Examples Schools should not have uniforms. WRONG Schools should not have uniforms so that students can express themselves and so that we can all be different. BETTER Schools should not have uniforms because it doesn’t allow students the freedom to express themselves and it encourages sameness among the population as it doesn’t permit individuality. BEST

6. Always, always… Always avoid using “I” statements! I think… I believe… In my opinion… Always make sure to answer the question or prompt.

7. Your Turn… Create your own thesis statement using three reasons why you think music should be allowed in school.