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Definition  A thesis statement is the central idea of an essay.  It is often the point you want to support in an essay. SO  The thesis statement explains to a reader the central idea of the essay and supports it with textual evidence

 A thesis statement is usually one sentence.  It is usually placed after the introductory sentences as a part of the first paragraph. Sometimes there is ONLY ONE paragraph.  The essay will contain evidence in the form of reasons, examples, details and/or facts or figures to support your thesis.

The thesis statement should avoid the following:  The first person (I believe, In my opinion, I am going to tell you, etc.)  Unclear language (It seems, etc.)  Attempting two topics at once (even if they are related only choose one topic)  Just stating a fact ( a thesis is something you plan to prove)

A Thesis Statement Should..  Contain a topic (main idea of what you are writing about)  Be ONE sentence

Examples Thesis Statement Effective / Ineffective Yes 1. The life of Christopher Columbus had a lasting impact on the world. 2. The deserts of the world have many things in common, but their differences are what makes them special. 3. The fat content of today’s lunches is excessive for children. No 1. Christopher Columbus was an explorer 2. My report is on the state of California. 3. School lunches suck!

A Thesis Statement Should Not Be…. Too broad Example: The world is a magnificent place to live. Better Example: Good teachers make Perris High School a fantastic school.

Which Sentence is too broad to be a good thesis? A. One reason to live in Perris is access to many wonderful places to eat. B. The city of Perris is a great place to live.

A Thesis Statement Should Not Be Too Wordy! Too Wordy: Some problems with Good Hope Elementary School is that it needs a larger playground, an air conditioned gym, an auditorium, restrooms connected to each classroom, running water in the classrooms and a number of other physical changes to the building.

Better Good Hope Elementary needs several changes to its facilities to make it a better school. (use a word that divides)

Which Sentence makes a better thesis? A. Abe Lincoln was one of the Best presidents the United States has ever known. B. Abe Lincoln was an excellent speaker, the 16 th President of the United States, a liberator of slaves, and united the North and South at the end of the American Civil War.

A thesis statement should not be too general. Example: Good Hope Elementary is a good school. Better: Daily writing practice has led to improved writing skills for the students at Good Hope Elementary.

Which Sentence is too general? A. Music makes people happy. B. Music therapy is useful in reliving stress and other conditions.

A Thesis Statement Should Not Be A Title! A Title A Cost of Living Better The cost of living in Perris is lower than in most other cities in the United States.

Which sentence would not be a good thesis statement because it is a title? A. Good teaching has led to an increase in test scores at Perris High School. B. Rising test scores at Perris High School

A thesis statement should not be a fact. A fact The average temperature for Perris in winter is 54 and in summer is 85 degrees Better The climate in Perris is ideal for outdoor sports.

Which sentence would not be good because it is a fact. A. The recycling of one aluminum can saves enough money to run a TV for three hours. B. Recycling is one of the most important jobs a person can do to protect the environment.

Identify the sentences that would make good thesis statements. A. Many people do not like to watch violent movies. B. Today’s movies do not have the emotional impact of the classic horror movies of the 1940’s.

A. Rap music is the best music ever. B. Although many people find rap music offensive, it has had a positive impact on today’s youth.

A. I enjoy white water rafting. B. The first white water rafting trip can challenge a person both in body and spirit.

A. Sixth grade students are busy. B. The life of a typical sixth grade student is challenging due to the need to succeed in extracurricular activities.

A. Community service projects include building shelter for the homeless, servicing meals to the hungry, providing transportation for the sick, distributing clothes, and large number of other helpful activities. B. Students should help others who are less fortunate.