1. Sponsored by the Writing and Reading Center Presented by Sarye Huggins
Topic Sentences & Thesis Statement Workshop
Sponsored by the Writing and Reading Center
Presented by Sarye Huggins

2. Basic Essay Structure
Introduction
Body Paragraphs
Conclusion

3. Learning How to Properly Develop Ideas
Consider . . .
What is the objective for your assignment?
What are your resources?
What is your point of view?
How can your point of view be supported?

4. Understanding the Purpose of a Thesis Statement
Thesis Statement: a short statement, usually one sentence, that summarizes the main point or claim of an essay, research paper, etc., and is developed, supported, and explained in the text by means of examples and evidence.

5. For Example. . .
Needless to say, the prevalence of double consciousness in various Black men and women (mainly adolescents) solely derives from oppression and brainwashing from White supremacy.
Yet, when I take time to look at the history of the United States of America, it is not as surprising or difficult for me to know that these people exist because they have always found a way to exude their evilness for the well-being of their ‘kind’.

6. Topic Sentence
Topic Sentence: A sentence that expresses the main idea of the paragraph.

7. For Example . . .
Frieda, one of the main characters and narrators in the text, is able to discuss her distaste for the favoring of Whiteness over Blackness.
Former President Barack Obama spent a great deal of his life working to support, build, and uplift various communities while acquiring enough knowledge and experience to become President of the United States.
The election of Robin Gregory impacted Howard students’ self-image and sense of political power by encouraging self-love and appreciation, as well as pushing them to be more supportive and involved in the Civil Rights Movement.

8. Topic Sentence or Thesis Statement?

9. “It is important for all institutions to have a curriculum that tells the stories of each diverse group that makes up American history.”
“This theory can be supported by Portia’s character in The Merchant of Venice and Iago’s character in Othello. Each character exudes an impressive amount of wit through their clever strategies, which juxtaposes their ability to use their intelligence for slightly evil purposes.”
“Most people think of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, they think of the rich African-American history and culture that should be embodied by the institution.”
“However, this does not make me ‘hate’ the human race or question God’s authority by asking Him how he could create something so “horrible”.
“These lines provide a fervent yet subtle tone for the poem. As a result, it allows the reader to directly understand the correlation between love and friendship.”

10. Topic Sentence
Thesis Statement

11. Thank You for Your Time!!