Thesis Statement Notes

FIVE-PARAGRAPH ESSAY OVERVIEW 1. INTRODUCTION – one paragraph that introduces topic & contains thesis statement. 2. BODY – three paragraphs that EXPLAINS/ PROVES the thesis statement (topic of essay) 3. CONCLUSION – one paragraph that restates the main points of the essay.

A THESIS STATEMENT is… ONE COMPLETE SENTENCE With THREE MAIN IDEAS That tells the reader what the ESSAY IS ABOUT. Example: Bedford High School is the best high school because of the teachers, the classes, and the activities! Remember to use commas to separate the three ideas…they are items in a series! Your sentence MUST contain parallel structure!!!

Helpful Hints… 1. Make sure you can write a paragraph on each of the ideas you list! If you think you can’t, change the idea! 2. Be POSITIVE…and LIE IF YOU HAVE TO! If you can’t think of anything, make something up…chances are no one will know! (this applies only to essay writing & the OGT!) 3. Use the words from the writing prompt to write your thesis statement.

Example #1 1. Explain the qualities a best friend should possess. Thesis: The qualities a best friend should possess are honesty, strength, and courage. Body 1: honesty Body 2: strength Body 3: courage

Example: #2 2. Everyone has his own personal hero that he tries to model his life after. Describe someone you admire. Thesis: I admire Mrs. Bellitto because she is caring, she is honest, and she is intelligent. I admire my mother because she is successful, strong, and independent.

Example #3 3. Your school is trying to pass a levy, and the district has asked each student to help. In order to convince the residents to pass the levy, you are asked to write a letter explaining what you like about your school. Write a letter describing what you like about your school. Thesis: Bedford High School is the best high school because of the teachers, the classes, and the activities.