Thesis Statements

Definition A thesis is a statement that identifies the topic and point point(s) of the piece of writing, giving the readers an idea of what the text will cover. aka argumentative claim

Qualities of an Effective Thesis Is usually (but not always) one sentence most often (but not always) found toward the end of an introductory paragraph. Is in the form of an arguable assertion that can be proven with evidence. Establishes focus that clearly direct the body of the essay, like a mini-outline of the essay. Answers the question from the topic clearly. Is narrow and refined, and each point raised can be explored thoroughly throughout the essay. There are no exceedingly broad generalizations that confuse the topic at hand. Provides (an appropriate number of) strong points that directly support the argument or stance.

Why? What is it good for? A thesis helps you narrow down the more general topic and find your own angle on the topic and express your opinion. A thesis lets the reader know what to expect or look for in the essay. Remember, reading is predicting. A well-formed thesis helps you develop and cover all parts of an assignment, helps you know when you are "done," and keeps you organized, helping you determine if you are wandering off in unrelated directions.

Main Elements Your position (Believing) What’s the general category of your essay? What is the one thing about your topic you believe is true? The qualification (Doubting) Is there a valid argument against your position? Is what you are saying always true? Are there exceptions? What reasons would your position have any problems? Can you admit them up front? The reason Why do you think your reason is correct in spite of your qualification? What is the good to be gained by your position?

Types of Claims Claims of fact or definition: These claims argue about what the definition of something is or whether something is a settled fact. Example: What some people refer to as global warming is actually nothing more than normal, long-term cycles of climate change. Claims of cause and effect: These claims argue that one person, thing, or event caused another thing or event to occur. Example: The popularity of SUV's in America has caused pollution to increase.

Types of Claims (cont.) Claims about value: These are claims made of what something is worth, whether we value it or not, how we would rate or categorize something. Example: Global warming is the most pressing challenge facing the world today. Claims about solutions or policies: These are claims that argue for or against a certain solution or policy approach to a problem. Example: Instead of drilling for oil in Alaska we should be focusing on ways to reduce oil consumption, such as researching renewable energy sources.

One way to arrange… Qualification + Reason + Position = Thesis For example: Although the topics addressed on Sufjan Steven’s album Carrie & Lowell seem to be dark, examining the album’s cover and its lyrics can shed light on his relationship with her; therefore, one can learn much from examining and analyzing its contents.

Another way to approach By examining __(reason)__, it is clear that _(opinion)___. For example: By examining and analyzing the cover of Sufjan Steven’s album Carrie & Lowell, it is clear that he and his mother had a complicate relationship when she was alive and even after she died.

One more way to approach it… Argumentative claim + reasons For example: One should consider the deeper meaning behind Sufjan Steven’s album Carrie & Lowell because elements like the album cover and lyrics offer an interesting perspective on a complicated mother and son relationship.

With revision… Like the lyrics of the songs, the album cover of Sufjan Steven’s Carrie & Lowell shed light on the dark but painfully significant relationship with his mother in her life and after her death.

Predict the Essay’s Outline Based on this thesis statement, create a simple outline of the body of this essay. Like the lyrics of the songs, the album cover of Sufjan Steven’s Carrie & Lowell shed light on the dark but painfully significant relationship with his mother in her life and after her death.

Create a Thesis Based on the Outline Strong thesis statements take a stand on an issue. Effective thesis statements propose a solution. Successful writer assure that thesis statements are clear and exact.

Thesis Statement Checklist My thesis statement is concise and clear. My thesis statement is debatable or informative. My thesis statement is a single declarative sentence. My thesis statement is manageable in terms of the assigned length and the amount of time I have. My thesis statement is interesting to your intended audience(s). My thesis statement indicates the direction of my argument or stance on the topic. My thesis statement is specific and can’t be misinterpreted. My thesis statement answers the question from my topic clearly. My thesis passes the “So what?” test? (If the reader’s first response is, “So . . . what’s your point?” or “So what—who cares?” then I need to clarify, to forge a relationship, or to connect to a larger issue.)