thesis statement lesson plan 6th grade

Top 3 Product Matches

Adventures of Tom Sawyer

Retail Price: $9.95 Our Price: $7.46 or less

Reproducible

Our Price: $19.95

Downloadable PDF File

Our Price: $14.95

Free Lesson Plans For Teachers

Sign up to get the latest posters, lesson plans, eBooks, puzzles, How to Teach guides, and webinars - for free!

• Crossword Puzzles
• Lesson Plans
• How to Teach Guides
• Other Resources

Writing a Thesis Statement Free Lesson Plan

Here is a guided writing workshop to teach students how to brainstorm and draft a thesis statement. This activity provides students an opportunity to consider their prompt and develop a claim that is effective and arguable. Three handouts are included in each download, with the teacher version also containing instructions on how to conduct the workshop.

This lesson plan can be used with any persuasive, argumentative, or research-based essay.

Newsletter Signup

Information and Products

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service
• Popular Searches
• Payment Information
• Grammar & Writing
• More Resources
• Order By Catalog Code

Customer Service

1.800.932.4593

Connect With Us

Copyright 2024 Prestwick House. All Rights Reserved.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Activities to Teach How to Write A Thesis Statement

Research Writing , Secondary Literacy , Writing

If there’s any literacy skill you would want your English Language Arts students to master, it would probably be how to write a thesis statement . If you want to teach your students how to write powerful, eloquent, and exceptionally captivating thesis statements, then you’ll love the activities in this article.

The key to any good essay is a strong thesis statement. A strong thesis statement sets the tone and clarifies the author’s purpose : it tells you the writer’s opinion, along with the level of thought and criticism that has gone into formulating it.

A strong thesis statement also creates an alluring introduction paragraph. This makes each paper in your grading pile a lot more inviting.

How do you teach students to write a thesis statement to make their audience continue reading? This blog post explores six activities to teach how to write a thesis statement.

1. Differentiate Between Strong and Weak Thesis Statements

Writing a thesis statement might be a new skill for your students. Thesis statements are often taught as a topic sentence or the “whole essay boiled down into one sentence.” This can be a challenging concept for your students to grasp.

To teach how to write a thesis statement, have a discussion about what makes a strong thesis statement. You can turn this into a collaborative lesson by brainstorming clarifying statements ; these statements dictate what a thesis is and is not.

For example: “ A proper thesis statement is written in one sentence ,” or “ a proper thesis statement is directly related to the rest of the essay .” This is a great opportunity to teach students the difference between concepts like a “topic sentence” or a “hook.”

Your students can use this free bookmark to differentiate between a strong thesis statement and a weak one. This slideshow lesson also explores clarifying statements with detailed examples.

2. Evaluate Thesis Statement Examples

Now that students have plenty of guidelines, challenge their understanding by evaluating thesis statement examples . You can use thesis statement examples from past students’ essays. You can even write your own examples based on the clarifying statements you create with your class.

If you’re open to your students receiving constructive, anonymous criticism , you can even have them write a thesis statement and evaluate each one as a class. I’ve had success with providing students with a thesis statement topic and having them write a thesis statement. Then, I prompt them to swap with their elbow partner to offer feedback.

If you’d rather provide a comprehensive list of thesis statements that reflect the common errors you would typically see in students’ essays, there are several student examples in this introductory lesson on how to write a thesis statement – this is one of my favourite activities for teaching thesis statement writing!

3. Provide a Thesis Statement Template

One of the easiest ways to teach how to write a thesis statement is to offer a thesis statement template . There are a variety of thesis statement templates that students can use as a framework for their essays. I start with a basic template that involves the three parts of a thesis statement: a topic, position, and evidence . I then demonstrate to students how they can create variations of this template, depending on which order they introduce each part. You can find examples for each template in these thesis statement handouts .

You can also introduce a few sentence styles to your students. These styles scaffold eloquent thesis statements. They also offer students the space to articulate their thoughts without exceeding the one-sentence limit.

Sentence Styles for the Three Parts of a Thesis Statement

Here are a few sentence styles that incorporate the three parts of a thesis statement. Each style also includes an example written by a real student:

• Style A : “Noun phrase; Noun phrase; Noun phrase – Independent Clause” Example: “The promotion of hygiene; the presence of medical professionals; the prevention of death – these are all reasons why supervised injection services are an important facet of public health.”
• Style B : If (subject + verb + object phrase), if (subject + verb + object phrase ), if (subject + verb + object phrase ), then (independent clause) Example: “If taxpayers do not wish to have their money allocated to cruelty, if more than 100 million animals die from animal testing a year, if alternatives to animal testing exist, then governments should ban the practice of testing on animals.”
• Style C : Independent clause: subject + verb, subject + verb, subject + verb Example: “College education should be entirely funded by the government: student debt would be eliminated, education would not be commodified, and access to education would not be exclusive to privileged people.”

All of these sentence styles are outlined in these practice worksheets for how to write a thesis statement, with writing prompts to reinforce each thesis statement template through repeated practice.

4. Daily Practice Activities to Teach How to Write a Thesis Statement

One of the most effective ways to teach how to write a thesis statement is through repeated practice. You can do this by incorporating daily bell ringers into your persuasive writing unit. To assign this activity, I provide students with three topics to choose from. I then prompt them to develop an opinion and write a thesis statement for one.

I’ll also include bell ringers that provide a thesis statement that students need to evaluate. Students really enjoy these drills! They get the opportunity to develop opinions on interesting topics, and many of them choose to explore these ideas as the subject of their final research paper.

If you’re looking for pre-made worksheets with thesis statement activities, these daily thesis statement bell ringers include one month’s worth of thesis statement prompts, graphic organizers, and templates in both digital and ready-to-print format.

5. Use a Self-Assessment Thesis Statement Anchor Chart

You can provide students with a thesis statement anchor chart to reference the guidelines and rules they’ve learned. A personalized anchor chart is best – like this free thesis statement bookmark – so that students can have it on hand while they are reading and writing.

You can distribute the anchor chart at the beginning of your research paper unit. Students can refer to it while evaluating thesis statement examples or completing daily practice activities. A thesis statement anchor chart has been a complete game-changer in my classroom, and I’m pleased to learn that many of my students have held on to these after completing my course.

6. Provide Engaging Thesis Statement Topics

You can collaborate with your students to generate an engaging list of good topics for thesis statements. Start by writing down every topic that your students suggest. Then, you can narrow this list down to avoid broad, far-reaching thesis statements that lead to a watered-down essay. When I make this list with my students, we end up with topics that are truly engaging for them. I also have the opportunity to clarify which topics might be a little too vague or broad for an exceptional essay.

For example, students often suggest topics like “racism” or “the problem with school.” These are learning opportunities to demonstrate to students that a great thesis statement is the essential starting point for an even greater essay.

To elaborate, a topic like racism has different implications all over the world. It is far too complex to explore in a single, 750-word essay. Instead, we work together to narrow this topic down to something like “racism in the media,” or even better, “representation in Hollywood.”

Additionally, a topic like “the problem with school” is more of a conclusion. To solve this, we work backward to identify some of the aspects of our school that make it an obstacle . This can include uniforms, early starts, or cell phone policies. This process leads students to a more concise topic, like “cell phone policies in twenty-first-century schools.”

If you’re looking for engaging thesis statement topics to inspire your students, I’ve included a list of 75 argumentative essay topics in this practice unit for how to write a thesis statement .

Tying it All Together

There are plenty of fun thesis statement activities and practice lessons that you can incorporate into your curriculum. Give thesis statements the love and attention they deserve in the classroom – after all, they truly are the most important part of a research essay.

All of the worksheets, lessons, and activities explored in this blog post are included in Mondays Made Easy’s unit for teaching how to write a thesis statement . This bundle has everything you need to teach your students how to master their thesis statements and apply these essential literacy skills to their writing.

ELA Common Core Lesson Plans

• Create Characters Lesson Plan
• Creative Writing Lesson Plan: Using Details
• How to Write a Cause and Effect Essay
• How to Write a Conclusion for an Essay Lesson Plan
• How to Write a Persuasive Essay
• How to Write a Reflective Essay
• How to Write an Article Critique and Review
• How to Write an Introduction to an Essay
• How to Write a Problem Solution Essay
• Lesson Plan: Effective Sentence Structure
• Lesson Plan: Improve Writing Style with Improved Sentence Structure
• Logical Fallacies Lesson Plan with Summary & Examples
• Teaching Active and Passive Voice
• Teaching How to Revise a Rough Draft
• Teaching Instructional Articles: How to Write Instructions
• Teaching Word Choice: Using Strong Verbs
• Using Imagery Lesson Plan
• Writing for Audience and Purpose
• Writing Transitions Lesson
• Analyzing Humor in Literature Lesson Plan
• Analyzing Shakespeare Strategies
• Fun Reading Lesson Plan
• How to Write a Literary Analysis.
• How to Annotate and Analyze a Poem
• Lesson Plan for Teaching Annotation
• Literary Terms Lesson Plan
• Literature Exemplars – Grades-9-10
• Teaching Short Story Elements
• Using Short Stories to Teach Elements of Literature
• Bill of Rights Lesson Plan
• Fun Ideas for Teaching Language
• Comma Rules: How to Use Commas
• Difference between Denotation and Connotation
• Effective Word Choice Lesson Plan
• Fun Grammar Review Game or Vocabulary & Language Arts
• Lesson Plans for Substitute Teachers and Busy English Teachers
• Lesson Plan: Creating the Perfect Title
• 4.08 – Lesson Plan: Using Semicolons Correctly
• Pronoun-Antecedent Agreement Lesson Plan
• Sentence Combining Made Easy Lesson Plan
• Strategies for Teaching Vocabulary
• Using Tone Effectively Lesson Plan
• 4.12 – Word Choice Lesson Plan: Eliminate and Replace “To Be” Verbs
• Using Voice in Writing Effectively Lesson Plan
• Speaking & Listening
• Teacher Guide Central

Teaching Thesis Statements with Lesson Ideas

Teaching thesis statements made easy.

Essays without thesis statements are easy to grade: simply write an ‘F’ at the top of the paper, laugh, and shuffle up the next paper. Unfortunately, not teaching thesis statements is the sign of a really bad English teacher.

A Thesis Statement Tale of Woe

On my way out the door, I noticed all the English teachers were busily grading essays. “Hey, Bob,” I shouted as I stumbled into his classroom, “Not done with those essays yet? I finished mine an hour ago.”

“How’d you grade them so fast?” he asked.

“It’s simple,” I responded, “I didn’t teach my students about writing thesis statements, so grading their essays was easy. I just gave them all F’s. While you guys waste your time teaching thesis statements and then having to actually grade their essays, we watch movies.”

“So, none of your students know anything about writing a thesis statement?”

“Nope.”

“You’re a disgrace!” Bob shouted. He moved toward me, stapler in hand.

Next thing I remember, I was surrounded by angry tax-payers. Angry tax-payer #1 shouted, “Get up you thief! Our tax dollars pay your salary and you’re supposed to teach the children of this great state how to write a thesis statement. I suggest you start teaching thesis statements tomorrow morning, or you’ll pay dearly!” The angry tax-payer clubbed me with a ruler and knocked me out again. When I awoke, I saw lesson ideas on my desk titled “Writing a Thesis Statement.”

I share it with you

Common Core Standards

Teaching thesis statements satisfies the following common core standards and establishes the basis for teaching all the common core standards in writing for all grade levels.

• W.9-10.1 Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
• W.9-10.1a Introduce precise claim(s), distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and create an organization that establishes clear relationships among claim(s), counterclaims, reasons, and evidence.
• W.9-10.2a  Introduce a topic; organize complex ideas, concepts, and information to make important connections and distinctions; include formatting (e.g., headings); graphics (e.g., figures, tables); and multimedia when useful to aiding comprehension.
• W.9-10.4   Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.

Ideas for Teaching Thesis Statements

• A quick review of how to write a thesis statement may help.
• Have students create thesis statements on a slice of paper. Collect the paper and read them to the class. Have the class vote on them.
• Do the same activity, but use individualized white boards to record judgments.
• Read thesis statements anonymously. The ones that do not qualify get tossed in the garbage (visualizing what happens to bad thesis statements is powerful). Give students chances to rewrite the thesis statement until they get it right.
• Write random topics on the board and have groups of students brainstorm good thesis statements.
• Require students get thesis statements approved before writing an essay.

Evaluating Thesis Statements

1. Have you answered the question or merely restated it? The following examples are based on this question: Does Romeo’s prior feelings for Rosaline diminish the credibility of his love for Juliet?

• Good example: Romeo’s prior feelings for Rosaline diminish the credibility of his love for Juliet.
• Bad example: This essay examines whether or not Romeo’s prior feelings for Rosaline diminishes his love for Juliet.

2.  Have you tried to argue both sides of the case? It is important to acknowledge the other side and address the other position. That does not, however, excuse you from choosing a side.

• Good example: Juliet was not the first woman to capture Romeo’s fancy; she was, however, the one who affected him the most.
• Bad example: Romeo loved Juliet with all his heart, but he loved Rosaline too; It could be argued they were both his favorite.

3.  Have you prejudged the issue by using loaded language? Immature writers manipulate readers through emotionally-charged language.

• Bad example: Immature, whiny, male-pig Romeo, a male harlot, ruins precious Juliet whom he loved no more than Rosaline.

I’ve taken these lesson plans and added notes, graphic organizers, and more lesson options to create what I consider an invaluable resource for middle school and high school teachers. It’s only $5.95.

It includes 10 lesson plans aligned to common core standards, notes, and over 15 assignments with answer keys. All you need to do is print out each assignment, make copies, and pass them out. Here’s a Free Topic Sentence Sample Plan to give you an idea of what the paragraph teaching guide has to offer.

Of course, you’re more than welcome to make your own handouts and assignments that took me weeks to make and years to perfect.

Last Updated on October 20, 2017 by Trenton Lorcher

Get 5 Short Story Lesson Plans Now!

We specialize in teacher-ready lesson plans.

I will never give away, trade or sell your email address. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Return to top of page

Copyright © 2024 | By: WebsiteRedesign.nz

Reading Worksheets, Spelling, Grammar, Comprehension, Lesson Plans

How to Write a Thesis Statement

About this worksheet:.

Practice developing thesis statements with this writing introduction worksheet! Students will learn how to improve their writing with a strong, attention grabbing thesis statement. This activity helps build writing skills by asking students to create a statement for the topics provided, such as: “What was the greatest challenge in your life?”.

• Subscribe |
• Newsletter Index |
• Daily Dose |
• Site Map   
• Home   |
• SAT/ACT  |
• Common Core   |
• Online Practice   |
• Printables   |
• Grade Level Help   |
• Links PreK-12   |
• Tech  |
• Assessment   

Create a Thesis Statement

advertisement

Create a thesis statement and include relevant facts, details, reasons, and examples that support the thesis. 0601.3.5 Links verified on 6/1/2014 Compose a Thesis Statement - Now that you have decided, at least tentatively, what information you plan to present in your essay, you are ready to write your thesis statement. Developing Paragraphs - Scroll down to find ideas and activities on how to elaborate paragraphs. Guide to Writing Academic Essays - Guide to help support one's thesis. Outline - Outline of how to create a thesis. Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements - from the OWL at Purdue Thesis Builder - online interactive tool developed by Tom March, one of the co-developers of the WebQuest concept Thesis Statement - [from LEO] "a thesis takes a stand rather than announcing a subject" Thesis Statements - How to write a thesis statement Write a Thesis Statement - [from Cliffs Notes] includes a "magic working thesis equation" site for teachers | PowerPoint show | Acrobat document | Word document | whiteboard resource | sound | video format | interactive lesson | a quiz | lesson plan | to print

Search Internet4Classrooms

Internet4classrooms is a collaborative effort by Susan Brooks and Bill Byles.  

• Technology Skills   |
• Site Map   |
• About Us   |
• Teacher Training   |
• Make Internet4Classrooms.com your home page.   |
• Copyright © 2000-2024 Internet4Classrooms, LLC All rights reserved.

Use of this Web site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy . 

Middle School Thesis Statement

In middle school, students begin to familiarize themselves with the concept of thesis statements , laying the groundwork for more complex writing tasks in the future. Crafting a thesis statement at this level is crucial for developing strong writing skills and analytical thinking. This guide provides middle schoolers with essential examples, a step-by-step approach to writing, and helpful tips to ensure they create compelling and clear thesis statements to elevate their essays and reports.

What is a thesis statement for middle schoolers? – Definition

A thesis statement for middle schoolers is a concise sentence or two that clearly presents the main idea or argument of a piece of writing. It serves as a roadmap for readers, helping them understand what the writer intends to convey or prove. For middle school students, a thesis statement often takes a simpler form than in more advanced academic writing but remains essential for guiding the direction of their essays, reports, or projects.

What is a good thesis statement Example for Middle School?

“Despite its reputation for being an aggressive breed, with proper training and socialization, pit bulls can be loyal and gentle family pets.”

A Good thesis statement provides a clear stance on the topic (the nature of pit bulls) and gives a hint about the supporting points the essay might discuss (training and socialization). It’s straightforward and suitable for the middle school level.

100 Thesis Statement Example for Middle School

Size: 148 KB

Crafting a clear and compelling thesis statement in middle school lays the foundation for advanced essay writing in high school and beyond. These statements are simpler than their high school thesis statement counterparts but serve the crucial role of guiding the direction of an argument or analysis. Here, we provide a selection of examples tailored for the budding middle school writer.

• Recycling is vital for preserving our planet for future generations.
• School uniforms promote a sense of community among students.
• Homework should be limited to ensure students have enough time for extracurricular activities.
• Solar energy is an eco-friendly alternative that should be explored more.
• Physical education should be mandatory in every grade.
• Reading books enhances creativity more than watching TV.
• Social media platforms should have age restrictions.
• Zoos do more harm than good by imprisoning animals.
• Students should have the option to learn a musical instrument in school.
• Public libraries are essential resources for communities.
• Bullying in schools needs stricter policies and consequences.
• Technology in classrooms enhances the learning experience.
• The Harry Potter series has revolutionized children’s literature.
• Parents should limit video game hours for children.
• Field trips provide a unique and invaluable learning experience.
• Cursive writing is a skill that should still be taught in schools.
• Schools should offer more foreign language options from an early age.
• Year-round schooling is beneficial for student retention.
• Team sports teach valuable life skills like teamwork and leadership.
• The school cafeteria should prioritize healthy food options.
• Art and music classes are as essential as science and math.
• Volunteering should be encouraged in middle school.
• Outdoor learning can be a valuable addition to traditional classrooms.
• History lessons should cover diverse cultures and perspectives.
• Summer vacations are essential for students’ mental well-being.
• Pets in school can aid in stress reduction and emotional learning.
• Teachers should integrate more modern literature into the curriculum.
• Learning a second language benefits cognitive development.
• Excessive testing can put undue stress on students.
• Schools should have programs that teach financial literacy.
• Mobile phones in schools are more distracting than beneficial.
• Gardening programs teach students about sustainability and biology.
• Early bedtimes benefit students’ concentration and health.
• Schools should incorporate more hands-on experiments in science classes.
• The study of mythology offers insights into various cultures.
• Students should learn about global current events in addition to history.
• Virtual reality can revolutionize classroom learning.
• Longer recess breaks benefit students’ concentration.
• Online learning platforms are vital tools for modern education.
• Schools should encourage students to read newspapers.
• Space exploration should be a part of the school curriculum.
• Schools should host annual events celebrating cultural diversity.
• Students should be educated about internet safety.
• Math can be made fun through interactive learning tools.
• Public speaking lessons can boost students’ confidence.
• Schools should teach students about healthy eating habits.
• Parents and teachers need to collaborate for students’ success.
• Peer mentoring can help students adjust to middle school.
• Schools should have counselors to address students’ mental health.
• Writing in journals can improve students’ writing skills.
• Students should be taught the importance of voting from an early age.
• Environmental education is crucial for a sustainable future.
• Ancient civilizations offer valuable lessons for the modern world.
• Students benefit from learning through documentaries and films.
• Creative writing boosts imagination and communication skills.
• Schools should emphasize the importance of critical thinking.
• Robotics clubs can foster interest in science and technology.
• The education system should prioritize experiential learning.
• Schools should have programs that promote kindness and empathy.
• Learning about world religions fosters tolerance and understanding.
• Digital literacy is as important as traditional literacy.
• Daily reading time in schools can enhance vocabulary and comprehension.
• Parent-teacher meetings should be held regularly.
• Schools should reduce the emphasis on grades.
• Education on climate change is essential for younger generations.
• Schools should offer classes on basic life skills.
• Celebrating achievements, big or small, boosts students’ morale.
• Schools should have workshops on time management.
• Middle schoolers benefit from learning about careers and professions.
• Setting personal goals can drive academic success.
• Debates in school foster analytical and critical thinking.
• Learning about entrepreneurship encourages innovation.
• Schools should prioritize classes on ethics and morality.
• Students should be exposed to various forms of art.
• Science clubs can inspire future scientists and researchers.
• Middle schoolers should be educated on digital privacy.
• Learning through games makes education more engaging.
• Schools should encourage independent research projects.
• Students benefit from understanding different political systems.
• Physical activity breaks can enhance classroom focus.
• Schools should have a broader range of extracurricular activities.
• Peer feedback sessions can improve writing skills.
• Astronomy should be introduced to middle schoolers.
• Community service projects instill a sense of responsibility.
• Middle schools should offer classes on logic and reasoning.
• Real-world math problems make learning more applicable.
• Schools should provide resources for learning beyond textbooks.
• Geography lessons should include current world events.
• Middle schoolers should be educated about online scams and fraud.
• Schools should promote creativity over rote learning.
• Workshops on effective communication benefit students in the long run.
• Learning about local history connects students to their community.
• Schools should educate students on the dangers of drugs and alcohol.
• Teaching negotiation skills can be beneficial in everyday life.
• Outdoor adventure programs can boost teamwork and leadership.
• Schools should foster a love for lifelong learning.
• Middle schoolers benefit from understanding basic economics.
• Drama and theater can enhance students’ expressive skills.
• Schools should have more guest speakers from various professions.
• Learning about nutrition can promote lifelong healthy habits.

Thesis Statement Examples for 6th Grade Students

At this age, students begin to form stronger opinions and arguments. The thesis statements are simple, clear, and easy to support with evidence.

• Dogs make better pets than cats because they are more loyal and trainable.
• Reading books helps improve imagination more than watching TV.
• Video games can teach important life skills if played in moderation.
• Homework should be limited on weekends to encourage outdoor activities.
• Solar energy is better than fossil fuels for preserving the environment.
• Field trips are essential for hands-on learning in schools.
• Eating vegetables is crucial for growing kids as they provide essential nutrients.
• Winter is the best season because it brings holidays and snow sports.
• Recycling should be made compulsory in all schools.
• Swimming is the most beneficial sport for overall health in kids.

Thesis Statement Examples for 7th Grade Students

As students mature, their thesis statements can tackle more complex issues, yet remain concise and debatable.

• Online schooling can be just as effective as traditional schooling when implemented correctly.
• Cursive writing should still be taught in schools despite the rise of technology.
• Social media has more negative effects than positive ones for teenagers.
• Schools should start later in the morning to ensure students get enough sleep.
• Zoos do more harm than good by keeping animals in captivity.
• All students should learn a second language from a young age.
• Students should wear uniforms to promote equality and reduce distractions.
• Fast food consumption leads to severe health problems in young individuals.
• Art and music classes are as important as core subjects in middle school.
• Bullying in schools can have long-term mental effects on victims.

Thesis Statement Examples for 8th Grade Students

At this stage, students delve deeper into societal issues and controversies, offering a nuanced perspective in their statements.

• Climate change is the most pressing issue of our generation and requires immediate action.
• Genetic modification in food can be beneficial if regulated properly.
• Animal testing for cosmetics should be banned worldwide.
• The age for acquiring a driver’s license should be raised to 18.
• Reality TV promotes unhealthy stereotypes and should be viewed with skepticism.
• Technology addiction in teenagers is leading to decreased physical activity.
• Students should be educated about the dangers of tobacco and alcohol from a younger age.
• The internet, though beneficial, has also given rise to increasing cyberbullying cases.
• Schools should actively promote STEM subjects for girls.
• Historical monuments representing controversial figures should be preserved with context.

Middle School Thesis Statement Examples for Persuasive Essay

Persuasive essays aim to convince readers to adopt a particular viewpoint. The persuasive essay thesis statement should be compelling and offer a clear stance.

• Planting trees in urban areas is vital for maintaining air quality and community health.
• Junk food in school cafeterias contributes to childhood obesity and should be replaced.
• Digital textbooks are more efficient and eco-friendly than paper ones.
• Physical education classes should be mandatory throughout middle school.
• Restricting screen time for children encourages better sleep and healthier habits.
• Volunteering should be integrated into the school curriculum for character development.
• Parents should monitor their children’s online activities to ensure safety.
• Students should have more say in designing the school curriculum.
• Reward systems in schools can boost motivation and performance.
• Local communities should invest more in public libraries.

Middle School Thesis Statement Examples for Argumentative Essay

Argumentative essays thesis statement present arguments on both sides. The thesis states a clear position on a contentious issue.

• Animal experimentation is unjustifiable, regardless of its potential benefits to humans.
• Introducing foreign languages in early grades leads to better cognitive development.
• Surveillance cameras in schools infringe on student privacy rights.
• The benefits of space exploration far outweigh the associated costs.
• All middle schools should adopt a vegetarian menu for environmental and health reasons.
• The grading system in schools stifles creativity and individualism.
• Strict parental controls on the internet are a necessity in today’s digital age.
• Public transportation should be free for students to encourage its use.
• Corporal punishment in schools does more harm than good.
• Modern educational technology tools enhance learning more than traditional methods.

Middle School Thesis Statement Examples for Informational Essay

Informational essays present factual information. The thesis sets the stage for the topic to be explored.

• The water cycle is an essential natural process that supports life on Earth.
• Ancient Egyptian pyramids were architectural marvels and had significant cultural importance.
• Photosynthesis is the process through which plants produce their food and release oxygen.
• The Great Wall of China, built over centuries, served as protection and a symbol of power.
• Hurricanes are powerful storms that arise from specific atmospheric conditions.
• The life cycle of a butterfly consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
• The human skeletal system provides structure and supports bodily movements.
• Mars, often called the “Red Planet,” has intrigued scientists for potential signs of life.
• The Amazon Rainforest, the world’s largest tropical rainforest, hosts unparalleled biodiversity.
• The Internet’s invention has revolutionized communication, information access, and business.

How do you write a thesis statement for middle schoolers? – Step by Step Guide

• Understand the Purpose of a Thesis Statement : Begin by explaining to middle schoolers that a thesis statement expresses the main point of their essay and serves to guide the ideas within it. It tells the reader what to expect.
• Select a Topic : Encourage students to choose a topic they are passionate about or one they’d like to explore. The more interest they have in a topic, the easier it will be to write about.
• Ask a Question About the Topic : After selecting a topic, have them phrase it as a question. For example, if the topic is “recycling,” the question could be, “Why is recycling important for our environment?”
• Answer the Question : The answer to this question can form the basis of the thesis statement. Using the above example, an answer might be: “Recycling is essential for our environment because it reduces waste, conserves resources, and minimizes the impact on landfills.”
• Keep It Specific : Ensure that the thesis is not too vague. A good thesis provides a clear and specific point. Instead of writing, “Books are good,” they might write, “Reading books enhances vocabulary, improves concentration, and encourages empathy.”
• Limit to One or Two Sentences : A thesis should be concise. Middle schoolers should be taught to express their main idea succinctly.
• Avoid Opinion Phrases : Teach them to avoid starting their thesis with phrases like “I think” or “I believe.” The thesis should assert a fact or a stance, not merely present an opinion.
• Revise and Refine : Encourage rewriting the thesis a few times to make it stronger and clearer. As they gather more information for their essay, their thesis might need adjustments.
• Seek Feedback : Have students share their thesis statements with peers or teachers for feedback. Others can provide insight into whether the statement is clear and convincing.
• Practice Makes Perfect : Provide ample opportunities for middle schoolers to practice writing thesis statements on various topics. Over time, the process will become more intuitive.

Tips for Writing a Thesis Statement for Middle School Students

• Start Simple : Especially for younger middle school students, starting with a simple and straightforward topic can make the process less intimidating.
• Use Templates : Offering a template can be beneficial. For instance: “[Topic] is essential because of [Reason 1], [Reason 2], and [Reason 3].”
• Always Back it Up : Remind students that whatever claim they make in their thesis, they should have evidence or reasons to back it up in the essay.
• Stay Flexible : Let students know it’s okay to change their thesis as they delve deeper into a topic. Research might lead them to a different perspective.
• Be Clear and Direct : Encourage students to avoid jargon or overly complex words. Their thesis should be easily understood.
• Avoid Being Too Broad : A common mistake is making a thesis too broad. For instance, instead of saying “Pollution is bad,” they could specify, “Plastic waste harms marine life.”
• Practice Debates : Allow students to practice debating on various topics. This helps them learn to form arguments, which can translate into stronger thesis statements.
• Use Real-World Examples : Relating the thesis statement to current events or real-world issues can make the process more engaging and relevant for students.
• Stay Organized : Teach students the importance of outlining their essays. This can help them see where their thesis fits and how their arguments should be structured.
• Encourage Creativity : While the structure of a thesis has a specific format, students can still be creative in how they present their main ideas.

AI Generator

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting

How to Write a 6th Grade Thesis Statement

Johnny kilhefner.

Anyone who has ever mastered a particular task will tell you that mastery is simplicity. The basics are by far the most important aspect of any work, as they serve as the foundation for which the rest resides. Sixth-grade language arts teach students the basics of writing an essay thesis on the level of a report or observation of reports.

Choose a general topic, such as “video games.”

Narrow the topic down to a specific topic, such as “Xbox 360.”

Create a scenario from the specific topic, such as, “Why the Xbox 360 is better than the PlayStation 3.”

Research your claim to find credible points that validate your argument. For instance, evaluate statistics of console sales, average the reviews for first-party titles and consider the console’s capabilities.

Write a thesis based on your findings. For example: “The Xbox 360 is better than the PlayStation 3 because it has consistently sold more units, has higher reviewed exclusives and was the first console with Netflix and Facebook integration.” The resulting thesis serves as the focus of an essay, but can be changed as the student discovers new ideas through the process of writing.

About the Author

Johnny Kilhefner is a writer with a focus on technology, design and marketing. Writing for more than five years, he has contributed to Writer's Weekly, PopMatters, Bridged Design and APMP, among many other outlets.

Related Articles

True or False: Mars Edition

Define MLA Writing Format

How to Write a Topic Sentence for an Analysis Paper

What Does Sociopolitical Mean?

Is There a Web App That Will Show All Pictures a Twitter...

How to Come Up With a Dissertation Title

How to Put an iMovie on Facebook

Instructions for How to Write a Report

How to Download a Video Off of Dailymotion With a Mac

How to Convert Files to iPhone Format Using Vuze

How to Insert an Image on an APA-Style Paper

How to Write a Critique Essay

What Is the Size of the Samsung Galaxy Tab?

How to Choose a Title for Your Research Paper

How to Get Rid of Title Overlays in Window Movie Maker...

How to Write a Literature Report

Basic Writing Skills for Middle School

How to Write an Introduction for a Character Analysis

How to Write a Thesis Statement for an Article Critique

How Long is the AP Psych Exam?

Regardless of how old we are, we never stop learning. Classroom is the educational resource for people of all ages. Whether you’re studying times tables or applying to college, Classroom has the answers.

• Accessibility
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Copyright Policy
• Manage Preferences

© 2020 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Based on the Word Net lexical database for the English Language. See disclaimer .

There’s a Boy in the Girls’ Bathroom

Multiple Choice Test Taking Strategies

Writing a Thesis Statement

• By Gay Miller in Writing

January 11, 2021

Writing a thesis statement is an extremely difficult skill for some students. This post provides step-by-step instructions. Student-friendly language helps students understand the concepts. To learn the rules, students watch a Google Slide presentation. While watching, they complete organizers. The printable organizers may be placed in an interactive notebook. Digital organizers are also provided. They may be housed on Google Drive. Students may use these organizers as reference tools any time they write essays.

So where to begin…

The Teaching Standards

Common Core State Standards do not include the words thesis statements. CCSS state essays should introduce the topic and state an opinion. (Sounds like a thesis statement to me?!?!) Before Common Core, this skill was included in the 6th grade Tennessee Standards. Depending on the level of your students, I recommend including thesis statements beginning in 5th or 6th grades. Find more information on Why Thesis Statements are Important for Kids here.  

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.1.A Introduce a topic or text clearly, state an opinion, and create an organizational structure in which related ideas are grouped to support the writer’s purpose.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.5.1.A Introduce a topic or text clearly, state an opinion, and create an organizational structure in which ideas are logically grouped to support the writer’s purpose.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1.A Introduce claim(s) and organize the reasons and evidence clearly.

Thesis Statement Google Slides

This lesson includes a Google Slide Presentation that goes over rules and examples. The presentation also includes a section with examples for students to evaluate. Students rate examples as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ and discuss why.  All the text in these presentations is editable. Therefore, you can change sentences to topics that interest your students. 

Download these free resources to use with your students.

Foldable Organizers

To make learning the information a little easier, three foldable graphic organizers go over the information. These organizers need no cutting. Just print and fold.

For Organizers #1 and #2, check out these 3 versions:

• Version 1 contains blanks for students to write their own definitions.
• The next version contains sentences with blank spaces for students to write in keywords.
• Version 3 is fully completed.

Use the third version as an answer key. Use different versions to differentiate instruction. Give absent students the completed organizer to use as a guide to complete their organizer.

For Organizer #3, students write example thesis statements. Because of this, only one version of the organizer is provided.

The Content

Organizer 1 – 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 an essay.

The thesis statement explains to a reader the main idea of the essay and the writer’s opinion on that idea.

 A thesis statement is usually one sentence .

 It is often placed in the introductory paragraph of an essay.

A thesis statement is a claim that could be argued .

The essay will contain evidence and opinions that support the argument.

Organizer 2 – Things Thesis Statements Should Include and Should Avoid

A thesis statement should:

• contain a topic (main idea of what you are writing about)
• contain an opinion about the topic (what your attitude is toward the topic)

Subject + Attitude = Thesis

A thesis statement should avoid:

• the first person (I believe, In my opinion, etc.)
• unclear language (It seems, etc.)
• attempting two topics at once – even if they seem related. Pick one and stick with it.
• just stating a fact – A thesis is something you plan to make an argument about. Facts can’t be argued.

Organizer 3 – Thesis Statement Examples

• A thesis statement should not be too broad .

Mountain City is a great place to live.

Better – One reason to live in Mountain City is access to many wonderful places to fish.

2. A thesis statement should not be too wordy .

Some problems with Mountain City Elementary School are that it needs a larger playground, an air-conditioned gym, an auditorium, restrooms connected to each classroom, running water in the classrooms, and a number of other physical changes to the building.

Better – Mountain City Elementary needs several changes to its facility to make it a better school.

3. A thesis statement should not be a title .

Cost of Living

Better – The cost of living in Mountain City is lower than in most other cities in the United States.

4. A thesis statement should not be too general .

Music makes people happy.

Better – Music therapy is useful in relieving stress and other conditions.  

5. A thesis statement should not be a fact .

The average temperature for Mountain City in winter is 34 and in summer is 75 degrees.

Better – The climate in Mountain City is ideal for outdoor sports.

Important Update

If you are looking for original organizers, don’t worry. They’re still here. I know how frustrating it can be to follow a link from Pinterest, only to not find what you are looking for. Because of this, I included the original organizers in the download.

These organizers contain the exact same information as the new. The difference is they require more time to assemble. A link to the original PowerPoint is also included in the download.

More Activities

• Provide a topic. Tell students to write a  thesis statement on the topic. Collect the sentences. Read these aloud and have students evaluate them.
• Provide thesis statements. Students use different color highlighters to show the parts: subject + attitude.
• Anchor Chart
• Word Map with Facts

• Writing Strategies

Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=336

10 comments

Skip to comment form

• Theresa on January 25, 2015 at 12:20 pm

BRILLIANT! I will use this for my freshmen who have a tendency to “forget” what the thesis IS and IS NOT!

• anis on June 16, 2015 at 1:32 pm

• sarah egger on September 9, 2015 at 9:02 am

This is wonderful, thanks so much for sharing. I gave it to my fellow English teachers and we all use it and we are raving about how much the students enjoy it and learn from it.

• Beverly on September 9, 2015 at 9:31 am

Thank you so much.

• Louise on October 22, 2015 at 9:31 pm

This is so helpful. Thanks for sharing with us.

• ENRIQUE GUZMÁN CH on November 22, 2015 at 6:22 am

Hi. I´m from Colombia. Thanks a lot for everything.

• Pat on September 26, 2016 at 12:14 am

Thanks for sharing!

• student on September 29, 2016 at 5:25 am

Everything is very open with a really clear description.

It was definitely informative. Your website is very useful. Many thanks for sharing!

• Thesis Generator on January 27, 2017 at 12:30 pm

Most thesis statements are one sentence (Unless you have a really long paper) but if you need to add more info use a semi colon or a coordinating conjunction to add more.

• Homeschool Teacher/Mom on March 22, 2017 at 12:22 pm

Thank you so much! This was very helpful!!

Comments have been disabled.

Click on the button below to follow this blog on Bloglovin’.

Clipart Credits

Caboose Designs

Teaching in the Tongass

Chirp Graphics

Sarah Pecorino Illustration

© 2024 Book Units Teacher.

Made with by Graphene Themes .

Fun Ways to Teach Thesis Statements for High Schoolers

• Trent Lorcher
• Categories : High school english lesson plans grades 9 12
• Tags : High school lesson plans & tips

The Thesis Statement Dilemma

[caption id="" align=“aligncenter” width=“600”]

On my way out the door, I noticed all the English teachers were busily grading essays . “Hey, Bob,” I shouted as I stumbled into his classroom, “Not done with those essays yet? I finished mine an hour ago.” “How’d you grade them so fast?” he asked. “It’s simple,” I responded, “I didn’t teach my students how to write a thesis statement, so grading their essays was easy. I just gave them all F’s. While you guys waste your time teaching valuable lessons and then having to actually grade their essays, we watch movies.” “So, none of your students know anything about writing?” “Nope.” “You’re a disgrace!” Bob shouted. He moved toward me, stapler in hand. Next thing I remember, I was surrounded by angry tax-payers. Angry tax-payer #1 shouted, “Get up you thief! Our tax dollars pay your salary and you’re supposed to teach the children of this great state how to write! I suggest you start doing your job tomorrow morning, or you’ll pay dearly!” The angry tax-payer clubbed me with a ruler and knocked me out again. When I awoke, Bob was asking me if I wanted to learn some fun ways to teach thesis statements to my students. I now share these ideas with you.

What to Do Before Writing

• You must begin with a topic question. If your instructor has assigned an essay question to answer, this step has been done for you. If you are doing a research paper, take time to come up with a good topic question.
• You must form an opinion and state it clearly. Do not be wishy-washy.
• Be sure you have approached your evidence fairly, without bias.
• Consider both sides of a controversial issue.
• Once you’ve established the topic question, a clear position, and objectivity, you’re ready to write a thesis statement.

What Is a Thesis Statement?

Students have heard the term thesis statement hundreds of times by the time they reach high school, yet have only a vague understanding of what one is. Your first responsibility is to teach them that a thesis statement:

• Presents your opinions or thoughts on a subject or an issue. You cannot write an essay without one.
• Must contain a subject + an opinion.
• Answers the topic question (the one you created or the one presented to you by the instructor).

TIP : A thesis statement should never contain the following: in my opinion, I think, I believe , etc. Tell them that the entire thesis represents what they believe. However, it may be helpful for students to begin their thesis statement rough draft with i_n my opinion, I believe, or I think_ to make sure they are expressing their thoughts or opinion on a specific subject or issue. When writing the final draft, simply eliminate those phrases.

How to Teach Students to Write A Thesis Statement

It is important to demonstrate the difference between good and bad thesis statements. These instructions will help you teach the former:

• Good Example: Success is a result of doing the right things consistently.
• Bad Example: In a world full of success gurus and books about success, it becomes ever so more important to delineate the one trait that ultimately determines success: doing the right things consistently.
• Good example: The key to successful dieting is focusing on a specific goal.
• Bad example: T_he key to successful dieting is focusing on a specific goal, which is also the key to successfully running a business and coaching a football team._
• Good example: Lebron James’ ability to score, pass, and rebound make him the league’s most valuable player.
• Bad example: Does Lebron James’ ability to score, pass, and rebound make him the league’s most valuable player?
• Bad Example: Lebron James’ ability to score, pass, and rebound just might make him the league’s most valuable player.

Write It Out

Knowing what to do and actually doing it are not the same thing. The following steps will help you and your students write clearly:

• Write several trial statements: writing is a process - you don’t have to get it perfect on the first try. Teach your students to revise their work .
• If you’re having trouble deciding which side to take on a controversial issue, write your thesis statement from two different points of view. Then decide which one better represents your opinion. If you still can’t decide, list facts on both sides of the issue and decide which facts make a more persuasive argument.

Evaluating the Work

You’ve spent a lot of valuable classroom time teaching thesis statements, but your lesson is not finished without teaching your students how to evaluate their writing. Instruct students to use the following questions to analyze their statement:

• Good example: Romeo’s prior feelings for Rosaline diminish the credibility of his love for Juliet.
• Bad example: This essay examines whether or not Romeo’s prior feelings for Rosaline diminish his love for Juliet.
• Good example: Juliet was not the first woman to capture Romeo’s fancy; she was, however, the one who affected him the most.
• Bad example: Romeo loved Juliet with all his heart, but he loved Rosaline too. It could be argued they were both his favorite.
• Bad example: Immature, whiny, male-pig Romeo, a male harlot, ruined precious Juliet whom he loved no more than Rosaline.

More Teaching Ideas

The following activities will help reinforce the concept.

• Have students create thesis statements on a slice of paper. Collect the paper and read them to the class. Have the class vote on them.
• Do the same activity, but use individualized white boards to record judgments .
• Read the thesis statements anonymously. The ones that do not qualify get tossed in the garbage can (visualizing what happens to writing is powerful). Give students a chance to rewrite until they get it right.
• Write random topics on the board and have groups of students brainstorm good ones.
• Make the thesis statements part of a writing challenge .
• Require that students get thesis statements approved before writing an essay.

Click here for a complete 1st semester curriculum map for language arts with lesson plans and links. I hope you learned some fun ways to teach thesis statements to your students. If you have other tips, be sure to leave them in the comments. Image by  Nicholas Jackson  from  Pixabay

• Share on Facebook
• Tweet This Resource
• Pin This Resource

Thesis Statements

Develop an understanding of main ideas and thesis statements with your class by using this step-by-step presentation. The concepts presented will guide learners through essay focus, main idea, central points, coherency, and proper positioning of a thesis statement. Tip: Use as an overview to a new essay assignment.

Start Your Free Trial

Save time and discover engaging curriculum for your classroom. Reviewed and rated by trusted, credentialed teachers.

• Collection Types
• Activities & Projects
• Assessments
• Graphics & Images
• Handouts & References
• Interactives
• Lab Resources
• Learning Games
• Lesson Plans
• Presentations
• Primary Sources
• Printables & Templates
• Professional Documents
• Study Guides
• Instructional Videos
• Performance Tasks
• Graphic Organizers
• Writing Prompts
• Constructed Response Items
• AP Test Preps
• Lesson Planet Articles
• Online Courses
• Interactive Whiteboards
• Home Letters
• Unknown Types
• Stock Footages
• All Resource Types

See similar resources:

Thesis statement + projected plan = introduction, thesis statements: the six basic claim types, thesis structure, how to do an ahap dbq, thesis statement exercises, university of north carolina: constructing thesis statements, research assistant: for students: purpose statement, writing persuasion papers: thesis statement, learn zillion: write sub points for a thesis statement.