Thesis Statement What you need to know!

What Is a Thesis Statement? It tells the reader what your paper is about. It establishes the point of view the writer is taking, and the focus of the paper. It sets the mood for the paper, and it prepares the reader for facts and details which you will provide as evidence for your thesis. THESIS STATEMENT

Where Are Thesis Statements Located? Thesis statements are generally found in the introduction, or opening paragraph, of your paper. In addition, thesis statements are often restated in the conclusion, or last paragraph. THESIS STATEMENT

A Few General Guidelines The thesis statement must be supported by using sufficient material in your paper. Keep the reader or teacher's expectations in mind. A good thesis statement is clear, restricted, and precise. THESIS STATEMENT

A GOOD THESIS STATEMENT… SHOULD fulfill the assignment. SHOULD assert one main idea. SHOULD be clearly stated in specific terms. SHOULD say what it means. SHOULD state an attitude or opinion. SHOULDN’T be unreasonable. SHOULDN’T insult the reader. SHOULDN’T use general statements. SHOULDN’T consist of facts or data. SHOULDN’T start with, "My purpose is…" "I intend to show that…" "In my opinion…" "I feel…" THESIS STATEMENT

Example Idea: Peer pressure and someone’s first smoking experience Thesis Statement: Although many friends think cigarettes are stylish, one will discover that smoking is actually a disgusting habit with many health risks. THESIS STATEMENT

Example Idea: Finding a Solution to Campus Parking Problems at HFCC Thesis Statement: To solve the lack of parking space at HFCC, administrators should use state funds to build parking lots. THESIS STATEMENT

Improve These Thesis Statements Obvious: Litter creates pollution of the environment. Thesis Statement: Recycling programs, though expensive at first, are ultimately an efficient, cost effective, and environmentally sound means of reducing waste in our environment. THESIS STATEMENT

Opinion: I like chocolate. Thesis Statement: Even though chocolate satisfies my taste buds, it causes weight gain, clogs arteries, and contains caffeine. THESIS STATEMENT

Many topics: Many video games and television violence are negatively influence young children. One Topic: Many video games are negatively affecting children because they are including unnecessary violence, explicit language, and it’s encouraging anti-socialism. THESIS STATEMENT

Unfocused: Martin Luther King, Jr Unfocused: Martin Luther King, Jr. is a role model for everyone to follow. Focused: Because of his determination, his courage to follow his beliefs, and his continuous sense of justice, Martin Luther King, Jr. is a symbol of American freedom. THESIS STATEMENT

How Do I Write a Thesis Statement? Decide on your topic. B. Ask a question AND…. Then…. THESIS STATEMENT

C. Answer the question with 3 reasons or ideas C. Answer the question with 3 reasons or ideas. This might need you to add your argument, viewpoint, position, or opinion about your topic and question. THESIS STATEMENT