Name:____________________________________
Date:_________________
Sheridan Baker Thesis Machine Worksheet
Objective: Using the cards you chose, compose a thesis statement following the Sheridan Baker thesis
model.
1. State the topic under consideration: _______________________________________
2. State your position on the issue (remember to consider which verbs and qualifiers you use):
__________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
3. Brainstorm three reasons for your position on the issue:
A:________________________________________________________________________________
B:________________________________________________________________________________
C:________________________________________________________________________________
Now, summarize your support and add it to your thesis in the form of a because clause:
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
4. Brainstorm a reason why someone may disagree with your position, or a common misconception
about your topic:
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
Now, begin your thesis statement with this qualifier. Try using the word although to begin the clause.
Write the whole thesis statement below:
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
5. Test whether or not you agree with your thesis by writing the complete opposite of your position:
___________________________________________________________________________________
Self-Assessment:
What was the most difficult part of completing this exercise?
What was the easiest part of completing this exercise?
If you had to do this exercise over again, what would you do differently?
How will you use what you learned in this exercise strengthen your writing?