1. Mrs. Gibson WCCS Writing Center introducing T HESIS S TATEMENTS

2. Objectives 1 Define thesis statement. 2 Recognize components of thesis statements. 3 Write effective thesis statements to guide writing.

3. Define thesis statement. What does this mean? 1 1

4. But a road map Not a windy road… Road map ….but a road map.

5. Definition Specific claim supported by your essay Central thought Road map Blueprint An arguable statement (usually)

6. Direct your paper An effective thesis = A limited subject (usually 2-4 parts) & a claim (point of view) Clarity & Direction X Writing a paper is very difficult work. X Writing an effective paper requires three specific steps. Effective papers are difficult to achieve, but with clear organization, vivid details, and strong development, they can effectively communicate important ideas.

7. 2 Recognize components of thesis statements. What do they include?

8. Three parts Effective thesis statements include the following: 1)The subject 2)The claim (point of view, arguable statement) 3)A blueprint of reasons/examples

9. The Subject Your topic Part One school basketballimmigration laws shopping careersspecific people places an authora literary work

10. The Claim Your point of view Part Two What is it that you want to say about your topic?

11. The Blueprint of Reasons How you will argue your opinion Part Three Two to four strong pieces of evidence to support your opinion OR Two to four specific subtopics about your subject

12. Identify the three parts in the thesis below. Example 1 Multicultural education is vital to society because it teaches respect, cultural appreciation, and the importance of inclusion. subject claim blueprint

13. Identify the three parts in the thesis below. Example 1 Tupac’s urban background and Black Power connection inspired him to influence his generation as well as today’s generation to challenge the system. subject claim blueprint

14. Identify the three parts in the thesis below. Example 1 The life of the typical college student is characterized by time spent studying, attending class, and socializing with peers. subject claim blueprint

15. Identify the three parts in the thesis below. How does this example differ from the previous examples? Example 1 The starvation rate in Africa is a problem so serious that this continent is going to need all the help it can get. Yet Africa can also help itself. subject claim blueprint

16. 3 Write effective thesis statements to guide writing. How do I write one?

17. Choose a subject. Step One Let’s pretend you have to write about poetry. That’s too broad, so narrow it. You decide to write about the poem “I Too” by Langston Hughes.

18. State your claim. Your point of view/argument Step Two What do you want to say about this poem? What do you want to argue? What is worth discussing? What will meet your instructor’s requirements? Let’s say you want to argue that it sends a message that is still relevant today.

19. State your blueprint of reasons. Your evidence/subtopics Step Three How will your prove your argument? Suppose your instructor told you to write about the literary elements in the poem. Can you choose three that are most important? Let’s say you choose the following examples: Imagery Themes Figurative language

20. Put it all together. Creating the Thesis Although written more than a half century ago, Langston Hugh’s poem “I, Too” continues to inspire and challenge people today through its use of imagery, powerful themes, and figurative language. The subject The claim Blueprint of reasons

21. It’s not just about the wording, but directing

22. Create Your Own 1)Subject: 2)Your claim (point of view): 3)Blueprint of reasons (subtopics):

23. What’s your message? T HESIS S TATEMENTS