November 5th, 2013

11/5/13

In Class:
Journal--  Explain how to fail a class.

"The Wool Sweater Lesson" [Thesis and Organization]
topic: What is the subject or focus of your paper?
position: What is your argument, stance, or point?
thesis: 1-3 sentences which construct your topic and position.
      --> If your essay was the human body, the thesis would be the backbone. The rest of the essay can still function and work, but not to its full potential. The thesis provides structure and strength.
 
One method for creating a strong thesis statement is called the T3 Method. T: State your main topic, position, idea, or argument. 3: Lay out three separate but related dimensions or details that support your ideas. Example:  Topic: Wool sweaters. -- So what?
Position: Wool sweaters are the best.
3: fuzzy, warm, and super hip.
T3: Wool sweaters are the best because they are fuzzy, warm, and super hip.
Alternatively, you can consider different formats, like Wool sweaters are the best because they make me look good and feel good.
The T3 Method is very useful because it helps construct the organization of your essay from the very first paragraph.

A second method for creating a strong thesis statement is the Occasion/Position Statement. The construction for this statement is:
[Subordinating Conjunction] + topic + , + position.
Example:
Although wool sweaters can be itchy, they are well-worth the trouble. 

Students worked independently on their next weekly research paper.

Exit ticket: Write a thesis statement regarding wool sweaters.

Homework:
Work on your next research paper.