Back in Mrs. Klinnert’s room, the essays are coming into clearer focus. The students have spent the last several days clarifying thesis statements for their essays. Today, Mrs. Klinnert has introduced a device to help them identify the supporting details that will strengthen their thesis statements. She is utilizing a repeated stem question. It is simple and effective.
An example that the class has worked through together is posted on the SMART Board.
Thesis statement: Working with partners is fun.
To develop further develop the thesis statement, students repeatedly complete the statement;
· Working with partners is fun because . . .
· Working with partners is fun because. . .
· Working with partners is fun because . . .
This process not only helps them to generate a list of additional details to include in their essays, but also insures that the details are tightly focused on the thesis statement.
The students continue to demonstrate a range of levels of success with the next steps of essay, but Mrs. Klinnert shows no signs of fatigue or frustration. She is steady and consistent in her efforts to help each and every student succeed.
Essay is not easy, especially at this age. Thanks, Mrs. Klinnert, for tackling a tough genre and sticking with it! 
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