1.  An effective thesis statement tells readers specifically what you plan to write about in your paper. It also serves as a personal guide to keep you on track.

2.  A thesis statement usually takes a stand or expresses a specific feeling or feature of your subject.  Examples:  Although Cole Matthews and Stargirl Caraway are involved in different conflicts in their respective novels, the characters are surprisingly similar.  With incidents of cyber bullying on the rise, many schools, teens, lawmakers, and even social networking sites are working to stop the problem.

3.  Although Cole Matthews and Stargirl Caraway are involved in different conflicts in their respective novels, the characters are surprisingly similar.  With incidents of cyber bullying on the rise, many schools, teens, lawmakers, and even social networking sites are working to stop the problem.

4.  Formula  Specific Subject + a particular stand, feeling, or feature= An effective thesis statement: Writing Assignment: Research paper about the environment Specific subject – Recycling Feature – benefits Thesis: Recycling is beneficial to the environment.

5. Effective Thesis Statement: Writing Assignment: Research paper about human growth and development Specific Subject: Personality traits Feature: Influence of peers Thesis: A person’s personality is shaped by a person’s peer group

6.  A Thesis Statement Should…  Tell the topic of the essay  State the view and purpose for writing  Suggest what the paper will be about and how it will be organized  Be based on facts and information  Use clear and specific language  Engage the reader’s interest  A Thesis Statement Should NOT…  Be an incomplete thought  Be a simple statement of fact  Express a sweeping opinion  Be stated as an announcement: “In this paper I will show that…”  Be too general or overemotional  In Not a question!

7.  Identifies a specific subject  Focuses on a particular feature or feeling about the subject  Is stated in a clear, direct sentence or sentences  Can be supported with convincing facts and details  Focuses on the topic assigned  Every paragraph in the paper supports this statement

8.  Now you try…  Read each of the following. Decide whether each is an effective thesis statement. Be prepared to defend your answer.  Los Angeles and New York are about 3,000 miles apart.  High ticket prices and athletes who are paid too much.  A diet that is low in carbohydrates is the best way to maintain a healthy weight.   Carousel Brainstorming Activity

9. Formula Specific Subject + a particular stand, feeling, or feature = An effective thesis statement

10.  Read the following prompt, and create a thesis statement which meets the requirements discussed in class today.  Choose a problem that really interests you. Write an essay in which you explain the problem, examine its causes, and explore possible solutions. Possible Problems to Explore:  Stereotypes of teenagers  Environmental issues  School lunches  Cheating in professional sports