The thesis statement spells out what the writer is proving. For this, you need a list of research topics equal to the number of participants. Randomly pick names, allowing students to select a topic. Provide them sources on each topic prepared beforehand as research for thesis statements they will create. Point out that a thesis statement should not be an obvious fact, such as "Birds have feathers." Instead, it is an assertion that needs support, such as "Birds may be negatively impacted by climate change." Thesis statements should be typed and due within two additional scheduled classes.
After thesis statements are approved, access the school library as a class to research for two or three days. Begin by handing out 3 x 5 cards for each student to record a brief overview of his research. Students should include only one piece of information per card, adding a sub-heading that details what area of the topic the fact covers. Each card should also list the author's name, source title and page the information appears on. Instruct students to turn in at least 10 note cards apiece on the topic by the end of the research phase.
An outline summarizes the writer's essay point. In class, show an example of a finished research outline on the overhead projector. Beneath the title, each required section of information appears in a descending order of importance through assigned letters and numbers, including Roman numerals. It begins with "I. Introduction," which includes the thesis statement. "II. Body" follows, with A, B and C letters underneath that each correspond with points that prove the thesis. Under each of those points, the next division is assigned numbers -- like 1, 2 and 3 -- and contains facts from the research that supports each point. At last, "III. Conclusion" shows how the sequential facts work together to prove the thesis. Allow a day or two for outline work.
Using their outlines, note cards and thesis statements, students create two- to three-page rough drafts. Encourage at-home preparation on this element, by only allowing rudimentary class time for it, then having them finish at home. Follow with in-class, peer-review sessions where each works with a partner to edit a paper prior to handing in rough drafts. Editing marks should be required before drafts are accepted. Set a due date of one week after peer review for final drafts, which should also include a bibliography or works-cited section.