The Almighty THESIS! What is it- DEFINITON Why use it- PURPOSE Where to find it- LOCATION How to write it- CREATION

THESIS (Definition) Quite simply… Thesis- a statement addressing a topic for discussion

THESIS (Purpose) We use thesis statements for: Clarity and focus Organization Direction

THESIS (Location) Thesis will be the last sentence in your introduction. Every claim, data, and warrant will connect back to the thesis. Thesis will be RE-stated (using different words) in the conclusion.

**THESIS (Creation) An effective thesis must be carefully work shopped. There are five steps. Step one: Begin writing your opinion of your topic. (this is your argument, or your position) State your opinion using only ONE sentence! I think uniforms should be required in public schools.

**THESIS (Creation, cont’d) Step Two: Now RE-PHRASE that sentence WITHOUT “I,” “my,” “me,” or “mine.” Uniforms should be required in public schools.

**THESIS (Creation, cont’d) Step Three: Now RE-PHRASE that sentence to begin with: Despite… Even though… Because… Rather than… Although… (Beginning with DEBRA will address the opposition to your argument, giving your side MORE CREDIBILITY) Although the decision would be unpopular among students, uniforms should be required in public schools.

**THESIS (Creation, cont’d) Step Four: Now extract (TAKE OUT) any weak verbs: is, was, be, are, being RE-PHRASE this sentence using a STRONG VERB (handout) Although the decision ignites unpopular belief among students, requiring uniforms in public school confirms an answer to violence, bullying, and the elimination of unnecessary distractions.

**THESIS (Creation, cont’d) Final stage  Step five: Clean up your sentence to make sure it makes sense! Consider this: If you read your sentence out loud to your classmates, would it make sense? Would it begin a conversation/discussion? If “yes”…HOORAY! 