On Friday, we reviewed how to create a thesis - a single declarative sentence. I presented various strategies to aid in creating a thesis and to build supporting arguments. The assignment this weekend is to:
1. Create a thesis based on a current issue of personal interest
2. Outline THREE arguments to support your thesis
3. Cite THREE references in MLA to be used in your upcoming paper
If you are having difficulty creating a thesis then try this process:
1. Choose a topic
2. Ask yourself questions regarding this topic
3. Try your best to answer these questions
4. Review your work and try to summarize your opinion
in a single, clear sentence.
If you need further help, submit questions or comments here.
Remember, Monday we will review your theses.
Do your best, but do not stress.
Have a good weekend.
Hey Mr.Del Sol I wasn't here on Thursday OR Friday so I have no idea what a thesis is or what to do. I read your instructions on your blog post but it doesn't really say what a thesis IS. It would be very helpful to me if you could please explain.
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Lilly
Okay Lily, I'll do my best to explain here:
ReplyDeleteA thesis is the main idea of an essay expressed in a clear, declarative sentence. SO...if you were to write an essay on global warming your thesis would be a sentence which declares an overarching opinion on the issue. This opinion is then supported throughout your essay with arguments supported by facts and evidence.
An example:
1. Topic: global warming.
2. Thesis: global warming is the greatest problem confronting humankind.
3. Supporting Arguments: global warming is the greatest problem confronting humankind because it affects everybody on the planet, it will decrease the food supply, raise global water levels, alter environments in negative ways, it will decrease biodiversity, raise the overall temperature of the earth, etc.
A thesis is created around a topic of interest to be researched and supported. The above topic is global warming. My thesis is my "big idea" about global warming. The essay I would write takes some of the supporting arguments I thought of above and expands on them to support my thesis.
Ask more questions if this is still not a clear enough explanation.
Ohh ok thanks alot that is really helpful!
DeleteI'm still REALLY confused about what MLA is. I know what it stands for, but I'm confused... can I come in at lunch on Monday to get some help? The only thing is, is that I have English 2nd period, can I still come at lunch? I don't want to get "not finished" homework because I don't understand...
ReplyDeleteThanks!!
Katie 8-6
Katie,
ReplyDeletedon't worry about the "not finished" homework. It is the effort that counts. We will review MLA in class to make sure everyone has a grasp on it. And, if you still feel as though you need extra help, then I am most definitely available during the lunch hour.
Good luck.
I still have no clue what MLA is and the assignment is due tomorrow. Could you please explain how to reference it and what it stands for?
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Ethan 8-5
Ethan,
ReplyDeleteI am afraid the question you now want me to answer is too big. We spent a class learning about MLA, then devoted portions of the two classes which followed to check for understanding and address problems.
MLA stands for Modern Language Association. I provided all students with a handout that explained how to reference various sources. Use this handout as a guide. Tomorrow, your introduction and first argument are due.
Any problems you have with referencing I can attend to tomorrow, one-on-one.
Good luck.