Name:_____________________ Date:_________ Period: ____

Directions: Read each prompt and then PAT down the prompt. Identify the
purpose, audience, and topic. Then, write the beginning of a thesis statement by
restating the topic.

1. Unhealthy food and drink options are prevalent at most fast-food restaurants.
Your local government is considering a policy that would regulate, or restrict,
unhealthy food and beverage options at local fast-food restaurants to improve
your community’s health. Write an essay in which you argue whether or not your
local government should regulate unhealthy foods and beverages as a way to
improve public health.

Purpose:
Audience:
Topic:
Thesis:

2. A national science magazine for kids is featuring an issue on animal

intelligence. Write an essay for the magazine explaining the different ways
animals show intelligence.

Purpose:
Audience:
Topic: the different ways animals show intelligence.

Thesis: Some of the ways different animals show intelligence are

3. Your school district is reconsidering its current athletic policies. Write

an essay for your school newspaper arguing whether playing competitive
sports benefits or harms young people.

Purpose:
Audience:
Topic:
Thesis:
4. Many events in Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon’s life were the result of
his search for the Fountain of Youth and other riches. Write an expository essay
in which you discuss how Juan Ponce de Leon’s quest for the Fountain of Youth
impacted his life.

Purpose:
Audience:
Topic:
Thesis: