For each person’s thesis statement, discuss:
• Does it make a debatable claim about the topic?
• Does it state the obvious or something factual?
• Is it specific or general?
• Focused or vague?
• Is it stated clearly?
• Is it stated eloquently?
• Will there be sufficient evidence to make the argument?
• Does it avoid the first person? (“I think…” “I believe”)
• What can the author do to improve the thesis statement?
2. What subtopics/main points have emerged about your big topic as you have researched? Or what other subtopics/points can you think of that you would like to continue to research?
3. Discuss: Structure of an Essay
• What makes for a good intro?
• What are some ways to conclude an essay?
4. Outline: Topic, Evidence, Analysis
5. Determine paragraph topics and decide what evidence and analysis/commentary belong with each.
