1. Thesis Statements Homburg

2. What is it? The thesis statement is that sentence or two in your text that contains the focus of your essay and tells your reader what the essay is going to be about. The thesis statement is typically located at the end of your opening paragraph. (The opening paragraph serves to set the context for the thesis.) Remember, your reader will be looking for your thesis. Make it clear, strong, and easy to find.

3. Attributes It is specific and focused. A strong thesis proves a point without discussing “everything about …” Instead of music, think "American jazz in the 1930s" and your argument about it. It provides the reader with a map to guide him/her through your work. It avoids vague language (like "it seems").

4. Equation Specific topic + Attitude/Angle/Argument = Thesis What you plan to argue + How you plan to argue it = Thesis

5. Is it a Thesis? I would like to become a chef when I finish school Although both chefs and cooks can prepare fine meals, chefs differ from cooks in education, professional commitment, and artistry.

6. My turn The job of a teacher is hard. It involves grading, yelling, and lots of planning.

7. Your turn Topic: School, is it good or bad? Give three reasons why.

8. Spicing up your thesis Even though multiple-choice tests give quick, inexpensive and objective feedback on several important skills, essay tests offer a more humane and comprehensive picture of a student’s abilities, because the essay measures logical thinking, facility of expression, and, most important the individuality of the student.