1. Writing workshop

2. Structure: The inverted triangle
1st sentence: general (asks question/gives fact) It is broad like a triangle!
Each sentence after the first gets more specific (narrower in focus) and includes definition of topic
Thesis statement: the last sentence of the paragraph (it’s the point, get it?)

3. The thesis statement
is the one sentence, at the end of the introductory paragraph, that provides direction for the rest of the paper
includes the claim and topics that will be discussed in detail throughout the paper’s body
is organized in the same order that the body paragraphs are

4. What is a 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.
CLAIM + REASONS = THESIS STATEMENT

5. claim
MAKE SURE YOU KNOW WHAT YOUR CLAIM IS.
Go to topics list (linked on my Weebly)
Stricter gun control laws, such as the banning of assault rifle sales to the public and mandatory background checks, will reduce the number of deaths from gun violence in the U.S. yearly.
Stricter gun control laws, such as the banning of assault rifle sales to the public and mandatory background checks, will not reduce the number of deaths from gun violence in the U.S. yearly.

6. BODY PARAGRAPHS (YOU SHOULD HAVE 3!)
These contain at least four key elements:
Start with transition words or phrases that link ideas together in a logical manner
Have a topic sentence that lets the reader know what the paragraph will be about
Contain specific evidence (quotes, facts, paraphrase from sources)
A Concluding sentence that tells the reader how and why this information supports the paper’s thesis.

7. Commentary/explanation
You MUST explain how the fact/quote/paraphrase that you used connects back to your claim.
In other words, ask yourself HOW does this prove my claim is true? MAKE THE CONNECTION FOR ME.

8. Conclusion paragraph Addresses the counter claim (research only)
revisits what the entire paper discussed
is structured according to the triangle format
has a rephrased thesis