Introduction to Thesis Statements Lesson

Grade 6 - ELA
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1
Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.1.B
Support claim(s) with clear reasons and relevant evidence, using credible sources and
demonstrating an understanding of the topic or text.

Objectives:
Students will be able to make a claim.
Students will be able to support their claim with evidence from sources.

Technology for integration:

Powerpoint, ELMO, Inspiration on class computers

Activity 1: Group Discussion

- The teacher will introduce the concept of taking a stand by having students stand on
either side of the classroom if they agree or disagree with simple statements like who
likes cats and who likes dogs.
- Once students are in their places, introduce them to the concept of a thesis starter like
Cats are the best animal because
- Call on students from each side to give their reasons for why they believe what they do.
This will introduce them to the concept of supporting facts.
- This should be repeated for a few more

Activity 2: Pairs
- Have students pair off with someone around them. Give each pair a topic in which they
must take a stand and defend it using at least three reasons.

Activity 3:
- Students will create their own bubble map to help them formulate a thesis statement.
Instructions are provided on the worksheet and an instructional powerpoint on how to
make a bubble map is included as well.
 Bubble Map Activity

Think of an opinion that you feel strongly about that is school appropriate. Come see me to
get it approved. Then, create a bubble map using the Inspiration Application on the
classroom computers. Be sure to include a Thesis Starter and as many supporting
reasons as you can come up with. Go through and check to make sure that your supporting
reasons are factual and not just opinions. You can personalize your bubble map and it does
not have to look exactly like the one below. When you are finished, you will present your
work to the class.
 Bubble Map Rubric

Task Points

Take a stand and provided a Thesis /6

Starter

Provide at least three factual /6

supporting statements

Creativity /2

Present to class /2

Total Points /16