The Write Skill: Strategies for Crafting Stronger Thesis Statements
What's included
4 live meetings
3 in-class hoursMastery Evaluation
1 hour per week. Immediate verbal feedback will be provided during each session for participation in guided writing practice and workshop participation. Brief written feedback on crafted thesis statements can be provided upon request.Progress Report
Brief written feedback on your learner's progress toward achieving course objectives will be provided at the end of the course. The progress report will highlight a strength and an area of opportunity with a recommendation for next steps.Class Experience
In this 4-week writing workshop, young writers will master the art of crafting powerful and sophisticated thesis statements that go beyond the foundational formula they may have previously learned ("Opinion because of Reason 1, Reason 2, and Reason 3"). Each week, learners will explore a unique strategy, from cause-and-effect chains to layered analysis and interconnected motives. Through interactive activities, group discussions, and independent practice, participants will learn to build clear, thoughtful, and engaging thesis statements that elevate their essays and arguments. Perfect for writers ready to take their skills to the next level, this course is designed to make writing both challenging and fun!
Learning Goals
Construct thesis statements that include three distinct, well-connected elements to support a central argument.
Apply techniques like cause-and-effect chains, contrast-and-resolution, layered analysis, and interconnected motives to craft nuanced thesis statements.
Syllabus
4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
Cause-and-Effect Chains
Crafting theses that outline how one event leads to another, culminating in a broader consequence or theme.
45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Contrast and Resolution
Creating theses that explore opposing ideas or concepts and resolve them to suggest a deeper meaning or theme.
45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Layered Analysis
Constructing theses that explore a single concept, character, or event through three distinct layers of analysis, encouraging depth and critical thinking.
45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Interconnected Motives
Developing theses that tie together the interconnected motives of characters or events, using their interplay to highlight a central theme.
45 mins online live lesson
Other Details
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
No outside sources needed.
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Juris Doctor from Columbia Law School
Bachelor's Degree in Biology/Biological Sciences from Harvard University
Hello! I’m a passionate educator and Ivy League graduate, holding degrees from Harvard (undergraduate) and Columbia Law. With over a decade of experience as an award-winning instructor, I specialize in teaching critical reading, writing, and analytical thinking to curious young minds. I currently manage a prestigious K-12 gifted education program in English Language Arts, where I guide students in unlocking their full potential.
My multidisciplinary background in biology and law gives me a unique perspective on learning and teaching. Whether it’s grammar, literary analysis, creative storytelling, or crafting persuasive arguments, I tailor my approach to inspire curiosity and confidence in every student. I’ve worked in traditional classrooms, online settings, and one-on-one environments, empowering learners to master skills like publishing, legal writing, and creative expression.
My goal is to help students not only build strong communication and critical thinking skills but also develop self-confidence and a sense of ownership over their learning journey. Together, we’ll turn challenges into opportunities and spark a lifelong love for learning!
Reviews
Live Group Course
$25
weekly or $100 for 4 classes1x per week, 4 weeks
45 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-16
3-10 learners per class