Recognizing Thesis Statements

A strong thesis statement should share an opinion, not just a fact. ○ A fact is a true piece of information. A reader cannot disagree with a fact. ○ An opinion expresses what someone thinks or feels. Readers might disagree with an opinion.

High schools should require students take financial literacy and computer literacy courses.

• fact

• opinion

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.8

CCSS.W.7.1A

Some studies show that a later school start time is important for teen health.

• Fact

• Opinion

In The Maze Runner, Thomas is the bravest and most admirable character

• Fact

• Opinion

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.1

In “Harrison Bergeron,” Kurt Vonnegut creates a world with laws requiring total equality.

• Fact

• Opinion

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.1

CCSS.RL.7.2

In Finding Nemo, Dory’s advice, “Just keep swimming,” is a metaphor for the theme, “Always work through your struggles.”

• Fact

• Opinion

Tags

CCSS.L.7.5A

CCSS.RL.7.1

CCSS.RL.7.2

Alice Walker’s novel, The Color Purple, is a riveting representation of how perseverance is necessary to create a meaningful and happy life

• Fact

• Opinion

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.2

Determine whether the thesis statement is too obvious, controversial, or not defendable:

Mandated state testing, which is used to determine school funding and success, is more harmful than it is beneficial.

• Too obvious

• Controversial

• Not defendable

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.8

CCSS.W.7.1B

Talented graffiti artists deserve respect from art communities around the world.

• Too obvious

• Controversial

• Not defendable

Tags

CCSS.W.7.1B

All students with A’s in middle school should leave and get a job at age thirteen.

• Too obvious

• Controversial

• Not defendable

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.8

CCSS.SL.7.3

CCSS.W.7.1B

Facebook ads can be a simple way for companies to share their product and gain more buyers.

• Too obvious

• Controversial

• Not defendable