1. Thesis Statements DefinitionPurpose Writing One

2. Thesis Statements Defined A statement having a subject and an opinion. The possibility of disagreement is always present. Synonyms include: argument, claim, assertion, or main idea. Must be proved by reasons, NOT emotions, in order to be valid.

3. Thesis Statements Defined Should be VERY clear as it announces your topic and your point. Limited in scope so that writing your essay is manageable. Usually argumentative or explanatory in nature. The first statement in a mini essay. Fourth statement in the introductory paragraph of a multi-paragraph essay.

4. Purpose Tells your reader early on exactly what your essay is going to be about. Keeps you focused on your essay’s main point.

5. A Good Thesis is Concise Example Arizona’s new health program is excellent, but it has several drawbacks, and it should be run only on an experimental basis for two to three years. Vs. Arizona’s new health program has several drawbacks.

6. A good thesis is restricted, almost bite-sized Example: The world is a terrible mess vs. Trade barriers contribute to international tensions.

7. A Good Thesis is Specific, Not Vague Example Hemingway’s war stories are really good. Vs. Hemingway’s war stories helped to create a new prose style.

8. Writing a Thesis 1.Brainstorm the topic 2.Narrow the topic 3.Take a position on the topic and use specific language 4.Make an assertion based on clearly stated support.

9. Catchy opening Big Idea Details related to Big Idea Thesis

10. Thesis Statement Concrete Detail Commentary Concluding Sentence

11. Thesis Example Atticus Finch in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird models integrity for his children and community.