A.P. History Writing How to write a thesis statement and make an essay concise

Time Limit You will have 30 minutes to write a: –Compare and contrast –Change over time

PARTS OF AN ESSAY! Introduction = 3 sentences »Topic sentence – What is the paper about? »Attention grabber – Creates interest in the paper. »Thesis statement – Your argument (what are you trying to prove?)

Topic Sentence Gives a generalization about the topic.

ATTENTION GRABBER!!!!!! Creates interest in the topic. NO facts, NO details, NO new material, just the bare outline.

THESIS The thesis is your argument without an opinion; such as, I think, I feel, I believe, NO “I’s” AT ALL!!!!!!!!! Use the facts to prove your point without adding opinion, or feeling, or emotions.

Compare and contrast the Roman Empire and the Aztec civilizations. The Roman and Aztec empires were different in their way of life, but similar in the power wielded during their reigns. Both civilizations made a significant impact on history. The Roman Empire built many institutions that continue to influence the world today, whereas the Aztec traditions have become extinct, living only in legend.