Thesis Statements

What is a Thesis Statement?

• Summary sentence that supports your opinion & ideas of an ENTIRE essay or paper

• Explains topic, reasoning, main points

• Explains the purpose of the essay

• Usually the last sentence of the introductory paragraph- NOT always

• One sentence

Introductory Paragraph

• In an essay,introductory paragraph will contain THESIS and should start with opinions, facts and other details supporting the thesis statement

• NOT the same as a simple paragraph

• DON’T FREAK OUT!!!- You will see

• see examples later

Why Use a Thesis Statement?

• To put main ideas in one summary sentence

• To better organize and develop the opinion/argument of the essay

• To provide the reader with a “guide” to what you have to say

Creating a Thesis Statement

• Should answer ONE single question that will give the main idea

• EX: “What are the benefits of using computers in school?”

• ANSWER: “The benefits of using computers in school are…” (now give 3 supporting reasons)

Example

–The benefits of using computers in school include increased typing skills, improved writing skills and a better knowledge of using resources on the Internet.

Compare These Statements:

• There are some negative and positive factors to the Banana Herb Supplement.

• The Banana Herb Supplement helps rapid weight loss but also results in the loss of muscle, and the increase in heartbeat and blood pressure, so it poses a potential threat to customers.

The Stronger Thesis

• The second sentence presented a stronger thesis statement.

• WHY?

• Remember: A strong thesis explains ONE MAIN IDEA and IS SPECIFIC!

Pick the Best Thesis:

• Soda is not healthy to drink because of its sugar content and lack of nutritional value, so schools should not serve soda.

• Schools should not serve soda at lunch because of the high sugar content in some sodas, which contribute to poor nutrition, lack of focus and motivation and poor focus in class.

Persuasive Writing Topic 8115

Writing Situation

A family in your town has decided to donate a large amount of money to a person, charity, or cause. Choose a person, a group, or a charity that you think deserves the

money.

Directions for Writing

Write a letter to convince the family that your choice should receive the money. Include details about how the person, the group, or the charity would use the donation.

What would your thesis statement be for this topic?

Expository Writing Topic 8215

Writing Situation

A family has decided to donate a large amount of money to your community. The money can be spent for a single project or it can be spent on several projects.

Directions for Writing

Think about the ways the money could be used in your community. Write a letter to the family who is donating the money. Explain how the money could be used for one

large project or several smaller projects.

What would your thesis statement be for this topic?