1. Argumentative/Persuasive Writing
Simple and Complete
Thesis Statements

2. A Simple Thesis Statement
Also called: a claim, an assertion, a point of view, a position
Must be more than just an opinion
It must be arguable.
It is a statement that can be supported by evidence.
Presents a topic that is not too broad to be supported by the length of the paper

3. Examples of Simple Thesis Statements
School uniforms should not be mandatory.
Cell phone use by children should be prohibited.
Zoos accomplish many valuable goals.

4. A Complete Thesis Statement
Is arguable (a reasonable person could disagree with it)
Can be supported by evidence, reasons, or examples
Deals with a topic that is not too broad to be supported by the length of the paper
Guides the reader like a road map, and supports the organization of the paper
Is written in third person (not in first person “I” or “me”)

5. Examples of Complete Thesis Statements
School uniforms should not be mandatory; they hinder individual expression, teach conformity, and require the purchase of unwanted products.
Cell phone use by children should be prohibited because cell phones burden families with extra expenses, may impair brain development, and can be unsafe.
Zoos accomplish many valuable goals, such as saving endangered species, conducting valuable research, and providing entertainment.

6. Practice: Simple or Complete Thesis Statements?
With a partner, decide if these statements are simple
or complete thesis statements.
A healthy diet is important for teachers and students.
A candidate’s ability to afford television advertising can have an impact on the outcome of congressional elections.
Students attending public school should be required to wear uniforms because they reduce clothing costs, limit distractions, and develop school pride.

7. More Practice… Simple or Complete Thesis Statements?
Monopoly should be called the best board game of our time because more copies have been sold than any other board game, it is played by both children and adults, and it has inspired many new games.
Children should always wear helmets when riding their bikes both because it is the law and because following the law will prevent head injuries.
Reading every night increases reading achievement on standardized tests, so students should read each night.