Thesis Statement What, Why and How

What? A thesis statement is… One sentence that tells the audience what your paper will be about. The most important sentence in your paper.

Why? A thesis statement is… Important because it tells the audience the topic, your opinion you’re proving, and the reasons why. Gives the structure of your paper

Where? A thesis statement … Is one of the last sentences in the introduction Has a major part of the conclusion (but is restated there)

How to write a thesis Easy equation Topic of paper + Opinion you are proving 3 Main Points of Paper_____________ = Thesis Statement

Example Thesis Statement Question of paper: which is better, Coke or Pepsi? Thesis chart: Thesis Statement: Pepsi is better than Coke because it tastes better, costs less, and has a better logo. Topic Pepsi Opinion Is better than Coke 3 Main Points Taste, cost, logo

Example Thesis Statement Question of paper: What is the best hobby? Thesis chart: Thesis Statement: Writing poetry is the best hobby because it allows for freedom of expression, it is all about creativity, and it can be done anywhere. Topic Writing Poetry Opinion Is the best hobby 3 Main Points Freedom, creativity, can do it anywhere

Are cats or dogs better pets? Topic: Opinion: 3 main points: Thesis Statement:

What is the funniest movie? Topic: Opinion: 3 main points: Thesis Statement:

Who is the greatest person you know? Topic: Opinion: 3 main points: Thesis Statement:

What is the worst injury you’ve ever had? Thesis Statement:

Miss Swanson’s sample country Thesis Statement: Cambodia is a country that constantly struggles because it doesn’t have enough resources for food, its environment doesn’t help things survive, but its cultural traditions try to bring happiness to the nation. . Topic: Cambodia Opinion: Is a country that constantly struggles 3 main points: It doesn’t have enough resources for food, it’s environment doesn’t help things survive, but its cultural traditions try to bring happiness to the nation

Your turn! Make the box first. Next create your thesis statement. Write your own thesis statement for your paper now. Make the box first. Next create your thesis statement.