1. The Thesis Statement

2. What is a thesis statement?
It is an arguable statement.
It is a complete sentence that expresses your position/opinion on a given topic.
It narrows down your topic to a specific, single focus of investigation.
It establishes a direction for the entire paper.
It is usually stated in your introduction.

3. What is not a thesis statement?
A thesis is never a question; it could be the answer to a question.
A thesis is not an announcement of purpose.
A thesis is not simply a topic.
A thesis is not a fact.

4. Writing a Thesis A thesis has two parts
Topic: the main subject to be discussed in the essay
Main Points /Opinion: what the writer thinks about the main subject to be discussed (the topic) Which would be your 3 main points
Topic: Community College Students
Main Points /Opinion : work diligently to pass their classes, transfer to universities, and earn a four-year degree.
Thesis: Community college students work diligently to pass their classes, transfer to universities, and earn a four-year degree.

5. Determine whether the following is a good or poor thesis statement
What causes violence in children?
Poor
A thesis statement is not a question!

6. Determine whether the following is a good or poor thesis statement
The purpose of my paper is to identify the causes of violence.
Poor
A thesis is not an announcement of purpose!

7. Determine whether the following is a good or poor thesis statement
The education system in the United States.
Poor
A thesis statement is not just a topic!

8. Determine whether the following is a good or poor thesis statement
Teen drop out rates can be reduced with good education, parental support, and encouragement from the community.
Yes, a thesis statement reflects a position!

9. Determine whether the following is a good or poor thesis statement
I would like to discuss how teachers and students can develop better relationships.
Poor
A thesis is not an announcement of purpose!

10. First Person ?
Avoid writing your thesis statement in first person (I, my).
Avoid using because when moving to your subtopics in your thesis statement.

11. Thesis: The Magic Kingdom is my favorite theme park because it has fun rides , great food, and amazing shows. Thesis: The Magic Kingdom is a thrilling place to visit with its fun rides, great food, and amazing shows.

12. Thesis: I think it is important to listen to your parents because they have your best interest at heart, are more knowledgeable, and love you unconditionally. Thesis: Listening to your parents is important for they have your best interest at heart, are more knowledgeable, and love you unconditionally.