Writing a Thesis Statement

What makes a good thesis statement? States an opinion States one main idea Is one sentence Is the last sentence in the introduction of an essay OR First sentence in a paragraph. Can be supported by facts / ideas

What makes a good thesis statement? Does NOT include phrases like I think My opinion is I believe You should

Steps for writing a good thesis statement Research or think about your topic Know what you want to say State an opinion about the topic Don’t be wishy-washy Keep the topic specific Make sure you have enough support

Topic: Dogs Research or think about what you know. Greet youplay with you Work with policemenseeing eye dogs Rescue dogs Make a messbark Cost money

A thesis statement is an opinion. A thesis statement must state an opinion. What opinion could you state about dogs? Dogs are an asset to society. Or Dogs are a nuisance

Supporting a thesis statement Be able prove that your opinion is valid. List three ideas that support your opinion You can use these ideas in your introduction.

How could you support this thesis statement? Dogs are an asset to society. 1. Dogs help blind people 2. Dogs work with search and rescue teams 3. Dogs work with policemen

How could you prove this thesis statement? Dogs do not make good pets. 1. You have to clean up after dogs. 2. Barking dogs are annoying 3. It takes a lot of money to feed and care for dogs.

Examples – Which one is better? The War of 1812 came before the Civil War Weak. It is a fact, not an opinion. The War of 1812 set into motion the main events of the Civil War.

Examples – Which one is better? The Great Depression occurred during the 1930s. Weak. It is a fact, not an opinion. The Great Depression was devastating to people in the U.S.

Examples – Which one is better? People need to stay healthy. Weak. It is too broad. Students need to get sufficient sleep at night in order to be successful.

Examples – Which one is better? The city of Frontenac should require curbside recycling. I think the city of Frontenac should require curbside recycling. Weak. Don’t use “I think”

Quiz Next Time! Use your notes! Be able to: List SIX things you need for a good thesis statement. List FOUR phrases you should not use List FIVE tips for writing a thesis statement Recognize strong and weak thesis statements. Write your own thesis statement. Provide ideas for support of a thesis statement.