Crafting Strong Thesis Statements

Jordan·

Writing

Preview

At a Glance

Grade Level6th Grade

SubjectWriting

Original Prompt

Create a dynamic, multi-part review activity for 6th graders that helps them craft strong thesis statements for their writing while simultaneously developing their word analysis skills. Design engaging exercises where students identify and use context clues to determine meaning of unfamiliar words containing common Greek and Latin roots. Include dictionary skill challenges that require students to efficiently locate information and understand entry components while connecting these vocabulary st...

This resource focuses on the development of effective thesis statements and vocabulary analysis. It begins by distinguishing between weak and strong theses, emphasizing the importance of word choice, clarity, and specificity in making arguments persuasive. The document includes a toolkit for decoding words through context clues, introducing various types of clues such as definition, example, contrast, and inference clues. Additionally, it explores Greek and Latin roots as a method for enhancing vocabulary and understanding new words. Activities challenge students to replace weak words with stronger ones and refine their theses by analyzing vocabulary choices, later involving peer reviews and self-reflection on their writing process.