Thesis Statements and Conclusions

What is the main idea (thesis) of the passage?

• Dogs can play fetch.

• Pets make life more fun and happy.

• Cats are funny.

• Hamsters are easy to care for.

Which detail should be in the conclusion?

• Pets make people feel less lonely.

• Hamsters run in wheels.

• Dogs bark loudly.

• Fish live in tanks.

Which is the best way to reword “Pets make people feel less lonely”?

• Pets keep you company.

• Pets bark and meow.

• Pets live inside homes.

• Pets eat food every day.

Which sentence sums up the passage in a short way?

• Pets are a lot of work.

• Pets can be fun, make you happy, and teach you to care.

• Dogs are better than cats.

• Pets need food, water, and cages.

Which call to action fits best?

• Go buy a pet right now!

• If you want more fun and happiness, think about getting a pet.

• You must have five pets to be happy.

• All kids need dogs.

Which emotional line matches the passage?

• Pets are a relaxing and joyful part of a family.

• Pets are scary.

• Pets make life thrilling and dangerous.

• Pets are the same as toys.

Which strong ending works best?

• Pets can be a big part of keeping families happy and healthy.

• Pets need food and water every day.

• Pets live in houses.

• Pets can jump and run.

Which strong ending works best?

• Pets can be a big part of keeping families happy and healthy.

• Pets need food and water every day.

• Pets live in houses.

• Pets can jump and run.

A good conclusion should be organized. It should (1) restate the main idea, (2) add some details, (3) use a trick to connect with the reader, and (4) show the big picture. Which of these conclusions is best organized?

• Pets are cute. You should get one because they eat food and drink water. Pets can be noisy, but that’s okay.

• Pets are fun to play with. Dogs bark, cats meow, and hamsters run in wheels. Pets are animals, and animals live in houses.

• Pets make life fun and happy. They teach kids to be responsible and can make people feel less lonely. Having a pet is a joyful way to bring more love into a family. If you can, think about welcoming one into your home.

• If you want a pet, buy one now. Pets are good. Cats are funny. Hamsters are easy.

What is the thesis statement of this conclusion?

• Pets keep you company.

• Pets make life more fun and happy.

• Dogs can play fetch and cats can cuddle.

• Pets need food and water every day.