The Thesis Statement Ooh, Scary!

The Thesis Works Hard State your topic Suggest a sense of purpose for the paper Reveal your position on the topic Suggest what points you will make about the topic Suggest a structure for the paper

Where Does the Thesis Belong? Role of the Introduction – Draw readers into the paper – Provide a sense of purpose Placement of thesis – Part of the Introduction – Depends on length and style of introduction – Often at end of first paragraph

Some Thesis Models My devotion to reading science fiction has strengthened my observation and thinking skills and led me to refine my ethical values. Although my experience with languages differs from Amy Tan’s, we both illustrate the challenges that arise when cultures collide.

What A Thesis Should Not Be An announcement of your intentions – In my paper, I have chosen to focus on why I love to read science fiction. – My essay will discuss the way my experience differs from Amy Tan’s.

What A Thesis Should Not Be A statement of fact – I once spent an entire summer reading 37 science fiction novels. – Amy Tan wrote about the different types of language she uses.

What a Thesis Should Not Be Too broad – My experience of reading is different from things I have read. – My experience with language is different from what I’ve read in some ways and similar in other ways.

What a Thesis Should Not Be Too narrow – Although I learned a lot about family relationships from reading “Bloodchild” by Octavia Butler, I don’t like any other science fiction stories. – Amy Tan’s experience using languages isn’t relevant to my relationship with my roommate.