What is a thesis statement?

The MOST IMPORTANT SENTENCE in your paper!

What is a thesis statement? The MOST IMPORTANT

SENTENCE in your paper A road map for the rest of the

paper Lets the reader know the main idea

of the paper Answers the question: “What am I

trying to prove?” Not a factual statement, but a claim that has to be proven throughout

the paper

Role of the thesis statement

The thesis statement should guide your reader through your argument.

The thesis statement is generally located in the introduction of the paper.

How do I Know if my Thesis is Strong?

1. Have I taken a strong position? Is it arguable?

2. Does my thesis pass the “SO WHAT” test?

3. Does my thesis pass the “HOW or WHY” test?

4. The thesis does not have to do with the plot of the book.

5. The essay will contain evidence and opinions that support the thesis.

6. The thesis is about a BIG IDEA.

A thesis statement should

contain a topic (main idea of what you are writing about)

contain an opinion about the topic (what your attitude is toward the topic)

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement is the main idea of an essay.

It is often a point you want to argue or support in an essay.

SO The thesis statement explains to a reader the

main idea of the essay, and the writer’s opinion on that idea.

Thesis statements avoid the following: the first person (I believe, In my opinion,

etc.) unclear language (It seems, etc.) attempting two topics at once (even if they

seem related). Pick one and stick with it. just stating a fact - A thesis is something

you plan to make an argument about.

A thesis statement should not be too broad.Too Broad

The thesis is bravery.

Better

Being brave can be scary but rewarding.

A thesis statement should not be too wordy.WordyIn Harry Potter, Harry is different and being

different makes him feel like he has to face many challenges to prove that he is able to do whatever it takes to save Hogwarts.

BetterBeing brave has many rewards.

A thesis statement should not be too general.Too general

Wonder is about being different.

Better

Being different is as much of a blessing as a curse.

A thesis statement should not be a a fact.A fact

Percy is trying to find the lightning bolt.

Better

Taking on a challenge can prove to you that you are stronger than you believe.