The Thesis Statement

APUSH

What is it? Provides an answer to all parts of the question Sets forth a central arguable position in

response to question; must be a contestable point with which people could reasonably disagree

Clearly asserts your own conclusion based on the evidence; an interpretation of the question, NOT a restatement of the question

What is it? (cont…) Anticipates and refutes counter arguments Avoids vague language Avoids the first person Serves as road map for paper (tells reader

what to expect from the rest of paper) Is usually one sentence

How do I get it? Results from lengthy thinking process Follows process of collection and organizing

evidence Requires a willingness to adjust as needed

How do I know I’ve got it? Did I answer the question? Have I taken a position that others might

challenge or oppose? Is my thesis statement specific enough? Does my essay support my thesis specifically

and without wandering?

Example 1 Question: Compare and contrast the reasons

why the North and South fought the Civil War.

Response: The North and South fought the Civil War for many reasons, some of which were the same and some different.

Problems: restates question; adds no additional information

Example 1 (cont…) Question: Compare and contrast the reasons why the North

and South fought the Civil War. Response: The North and South fought the Civil War for

many reasons, some of which were the same and some different.

Better Response: While both side fought the Civil War over the issue of slavery, the North fought for moral reasons while the South fought to preserve its own institutions.

Example 1 (cont…) Question: Compare and contrast the reasons why the North and South fought the

Civil War. Response: The North and South fought the Civil War for many reasons, some of

which were the same and some different. Better Response: While both side fought the Civil War over the issue of slavery,

the North fought for moral reasons while the South fought to preserve its own institutions.

Even Better: While both Northerners and Southerners believed they fought against tyranny and oppression, Northerners focused on the oppression of slaves while Southerners defended their own right to self-government.