1. Formulating a Thesis Statement Mr. Parker 9 th Literature and Composition

2. What is a three-point thesis?  What is a three-point thesis? A statement in the introduction paragraph that states all three points that will be discussed in an essay Example: Romeo and Juliet’s secretive actions, impulsive decisions, and lack of common sense lead to their demise at the end of the play.

3. What is an Umbrella Thesis?  What is an umbrella thesis? The point of your paper—a statement in the introduction paragraph that condenses all of the points that will be discussed into one overall point  For a literary essay, the thesis should be an argumentative statement that tells an interpretation of the work. Example: Romeo and Juliet’s impulsivity leads to their demise at the end of the play.

4. More on thesis statements  What is a good umbrella thesis? A declarative sentence that states clearly the main point you want to make.  Why is it called an umbrella thesis? All the points you plan to discuss in essay should fit under the umbrella of your thesis statement.

5. More on thesis statements  A good thesis may also:  Make a comparison or contrast: Example: Mercutio’s view of love in Romeo and Juliet differs from that of Romeo; Mercutio sees love as a game whereas Romeo views it as a serious matter of the heart.  Focus on the causes or effects of a particular event, condition or change: Example: A number of ill-fated events make Romeo and Juliet’s deaths in the play inevitable.  Propose a solution to a problem or recommend a policy. Example: Romeo and Juliet could have avoided their tragic demise if they had not acted in such an impulsive fashion throughout the play.

6. More on thesis statements  A good thesis is NOT:  A statement of fact: William Shakespeare modeled his play The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet after an earlier story.  A personal opinion: I think Romeo and Juliet is a great story.  A vague generalization: Romeo and Juliet had a lot of problems throughout the play.  A question: Were Romeo and Juliet’s impulsive actions a contributing factor to their demise?

7. How do I write an umbrella thesis?  Convert the three ideas you plan to talk about in your essay into one comprehensive statement.  Example: Romeo and Juliet’s secretive actions, impulsive decisions, and lack of common sense lead to their demise at the end of the play.  Romeo and Juliet’s impulsivity leads to their demise at the end of the play.