Developing a thesis Topic: The Civil War Research Question: What caused the Civil War? Thesis: There were many factors involved in the start of the Civil War, but the underlying cause was the institution of slavery. Conclusion you have reached about your topic after analysis of your sources.

A thesis is NOT Description of your paper Your research question A factual statement Your opinion.

A thesis is A statement that reflects what you have concluded about the topic of your paper, based on the critical analysis and interpretation of the source material you have examined. You must read and research in order to formulate a strong thesis The thesis starts with a research question The answer changes throughout your research process

The thesis is specific and debatable There should be a focus to your thesis not a general statement about the topic. You should be proving something with your thesis Your argument MUST be based on evidence that shows how the conclusions/answer to the research question came to be.

The thesis is the heart of your paper No ideas can flow without a heartbeat.

Constructing an argument You must be willing to reach conclusions that could be challenged or debated by an intelligent reader. The thesis must be not only possible, but valid. (One of many possible viewpoints on the topic) The validity comes from the evidence you find. The reliable sources that support your argument. You also must respond to opposition arguments.

Supporting your thesis Evidence from careful/critical reading of text is necessary to solidify your thesis. Use evidence in the form of quotes/paraphrase or summary to support your thesis.

Responding to counterevidence and anticipating opposition There will be evidence that does not support your thesis or conclusion. Should you ignore it? Definitely include it. Your argument should be based on consideration of all evidence, all arguments. You should be disagreeing with someone. Though you disagree, don’t name-call, oversimplify, or distort opposing points of view. If the counter evidence too strong, you should adjust your thesis. Your thesis is tentative until your final draft.