Thesis/Claim Statement

it's the main point that a writer attempts to support in a piece of writing

it introduces the essay's topic

it provides a summary of the essay's main points

it gives direction to an essay

identification, claim, and direction

a claim and background

a hook, abackground, and a claim

Dogs make great pets.

Dogs make up 33% of the pets in households

Dogs make great pets because they're fierce protectors, great companions, and teach responsibility to children.

Dogs are fun pets to have because they're happy animals.

A pit bull can be a good pet.

A pit bull can be a good pet because they are protective, good with children, and can be very active with their families.

Pit bulls are great pets.

A pit bull can be a good pet. My family has had pit bulls for ages.