1. Developing a Thesis Statement

2. What is a thesis statement? A statement, argument or theory that is the basis of your project as a result of your research. In other words, you have done research and you have found out…your thesis. For Example: Topic: Christopher Columbus Essential Question: What was the impact of the voyages of Christopher Columbus? Thesis: Christopher Columbus should not be celebrated with a federal holiday because of his barbaric interactions with the people of the “New World”.

3. What do I do with my thesis statement? Your thesis should be visible on your exhibit, documentary or web site, stated in your performance or written in your paper.

4. What is an Essential Question? We will sit down together when you have chosen your topic and we will develop your Essential Question (EQ). The EQ should be what you want to discover about your topic through your research. The answer to your EQ will become your thesis. Your thesis should be visible on your exhibit, documentary or web site, stated in your performance or written in your paper.

7. Forming a Thesis Statement Your Thesis statement should be specific. Original thesis: There are serious objections to today's horror movies. Revised theses: Because modern cinematic techniques have allowed filmmakers to get more graphic, horror flicks have desensitized young American viewers to violence.

8. Forming a Thesis Statement Your Thesis statement should be clear. Original thesis: Although the timber wolf is a timid and gentle animal, it is being systematically exterminated. [if it's so timid and gentle -- why is it being exterminated?] Revised thesis: Although the timber wolf is actually a timid and gentle animal, it is being systematically exterminated because people wrongfully believe it to be a fierce and cold- blooded killer.

9. Forming a Thesis Statement Your Thesis statement should include a comment about your position on the topic. Original thesis: In this paper, I will discuss the relationship between fairy tales and early childhood. Revised thesis: Not just empty stories for kids, fairy tales shed light on the psychology of young children.

10. Lets Practice Working with a partner, read the following essential questions and write a possible thesis statement for each. Remember to write these that are specific, clear and comment about your position on the topic.

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