how to write a thesis statement for kids

Research Writing , Secondary Literacy , Writing

6 Activities to Teach How to Write A Thesis Statement

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 blog post!

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 .

Activities to Teach How to Write a Thesis Statement in High School

1. Differentiate Between Strong and Weak Thesis Statements

Writing a thesis statement might be a new skill for your students. Often, thesis statements are introduced as a topic sentence or described as “the whole essay condensed into one sentence.” This can be a challenging concept for students to understand.

To teach students how to write a thesis statement, start with a discussion about what makes a thesis statement strong. Turn this into a collaborative lesson by brainstorming clarifying statements that define what a thesis statement is—and what it isn’t.

For example, you might say, “ A strong thesis statement is written in a single sentence ” or “ A strong thesis statement is directly connected to the rest of the essay. ” This is also a great opportunity to teach students the difference between concepts like a “topic sentence” and a “hook.”

This slideshow lesson explores clarifying statements with detailed examples. It also includes a bookmark template that students can use as a personal anchor chart to differentiate between strong and weak thesis statements.

2. Evaluate Thesis Statement Examples

Now that your students have clear guidelines, you can challenge their understanding by evaluating thesis statement examples . One way to do this is to 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 a peer to offer feedback.

If you’d rather provide a comprehensive list of thesis statements that highlight common errors, onsider using student examples from this thesis statement workshop . This is one of my favorite activities for teaching students how to write strong thesis statements!

How to scaffold thesis statements: the ultimate guide

3. Provide a Thesis Statement Template

One of the simplest ways to teach thesis statement writing is by offering a thesis statement template . There are various templates students can use as a framework for their essays. I like to start with a basic template that includes the three key components of a thesis statement: topic, position, and evidence. I then demonstrate how students can vary this template by changing the order in which they introduce each part. Examples for each template can be found in this thesis statement handbook .

You can also introduce a few sentence styles to help students craft more eloquent thesis statements. These styles provide structure while allowing students to express their ideas clearly, all within 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 spiral review worksheets that teach how to write a thesis statement. Each practice activity includes writing prompts to reinforce these thesis statement templates through repeated practice.

Scaffolding How to Write Thesis Statements

4. Spiral Review Activities to Teach How to Write a Thesis Statement

One effective way to teach thesis writing is through spiral review with daily bell ringers in your persuasive writing unit. Present a new prompt each day, challenging students to write a clear, concise thesis statement. This consistent practice helps students internalize the structure and purpose of a strong thesis, building confidence and creating a solid foundation for any type of essay.

You can also include bell ringers with thesis statements for students to evaluate. They really enjoy these exercises! It gives them a chance to form opinions on interesting topics, and many even choose to explore these ideas in their final research paper.

If you’re looking for daily practice worksheets with ready-to-print thesis statement activities, these thesis statement spiral review activities include one month’s worth of thesis statement prompts, graphic organizers, and templates in both digital and 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 persuasive writing unit. Students can refer to it while they evaluate thesis statement examples or complete daily practice activities. A thesis statement anchor chart has been a game-changer in my classroom, and I’m excited to hear that many of my students have kept them after completing my class.

Teaching thesis statements in high school ELA

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 suggestions provide a great opportunity to teach students that a strong thesis statement is the crucial starting point for crafting an even stronger 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.”

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 a crucial part of any 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.

You might also like these posts:

How to Conduct a Classroom Mock Trial

Meaningful End of the Year Reflection Questions for Students

4 Strategies for Teaching Students How to Avoid Plagiarism

Find what you need.

Connect With Me

Read the blog.

Middle School Thesis Statement

Ai generator.

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.