Skip to main content

How to Write a Conclusion for Middle School

How-to4 min·Updated Jan 2024

Step 1: Restate your thesis statement

Restate your thesis statement as the first sentence of your conclusion. Do not simply copy and paste the thesis from your introduction. Instead, use synonyms and change the sentence structure to say the same thing in a fresh way. This reminds the reader of your main argument now that they have read all your evidence. For example, if your thesis was 'School uniforms reduce bullying,' your restated thesis might be 'Implementing a mandatory dress code is an effective way to create a safer social environment for students.'

Step 2: Summarize your main points

Write one or two sentences that summarize the biggest pieces of evidence from your body paragraphs. Think of this as a quick 'highlight reel' of your essay. Avoid going into detail or providing specific quotes again. Your goal is to show how your different points work together to prove your thesis. Use transition words like 'furthermore' or 'additionally' to link these points smoothly. This section ensures the reader remembers your strongest arguments before they finish the paper.

Step 3: Connect to the 'So What?'

Explain the significance of your topic to the reader. This is often called the 'so what?' moment. You need to tell your audience why the information you shared is important in a broader context. Does it affect their daily lives? Does it change how they should think about a historical event? By connecting your specific essay topic to a larger idea, you make your writing feel more meaningful and authoritative. This bridges the gap between your school assignment and the real world.

Step 4: End with a strong clincher

Finish your essay with a clincher sentence. This is the final thought that stays with your reader after they put the paper down. You can use a call to action, a powerful final thought, or a connection back to the hook you used in your introduction. Avoid ending abruptly. A well-crafted clincher provides a sense of closure and makes your essay feel complete. It is your last chance to impress your teacher, so make the tone confident and clear.

Example: Middle school conclusion

Example
Topic: Why recycling should be mandatory in all households.

[Restated Thesis]: Ultimately, requiring all citizens to recycle is a necessary step toward protecting our planet's future. [Summary]: By reducing the amount of waste in landfills and saving natural resources, mandatory recycling programs address the environmental crisis directly. [Significance]: When every household participates, the small act of sorting trash turns into a massive global impact. [Clincher]: The Earth cannot wait for people to choose to be responsible; the time for required action is now.

Common mistakes to avoid

Avoid these common errors when writing your conclusion: Never bring up a new argument or piece of evidence at the end of your essay. Avoid using 'In conclusion' as it is overused; try starting with 'Clearly' or 'As demonstrated' instead. Do not apologize or use phrases like 'I think' or 'I might be wrong.' Finally, avoid being too brief; a one-sentence conclusion is not enough to wrap up a middle school essay.