Conclusions/Re-stated Thesis Writing 101 Conclusions/Re-stated Thesis

Definition . . . A concluding paragraph ends the discussion smoothly by following logically from the essay’s Introductory Paragraph containing the Thesis Statement and from the essay’s Body Paragraphs so that the discussion does not end abruptly.

Strategies to Try . . . A strategy adapted from those used for introductory paragraphs – but be careful to choose a different strategy for your introduction and conclusion: Relating a brief concluding interesting story or anecdote Giving one or more pertinent concluding statistics Asking one or more thought provoking questions for further thought Using an appropriate quotation to sum up the thesis statement Redefining a key term for emphasis

Strategies to Try . . . A statement that urges awareness by the readers A statement that looks ahead to the future A call to readers

Strategies to Avoid . . . Introducing new ideas or facts that belong in the body of the essay Rewording your introductions Announcing what you’ve discussed, as in “In this paper, I have explained why oil prices have dropped.” Making absolute claims, as in “I have proved that oil prices don’t always affect gasoline prices.” Apologizing, as in “Even though I’m not an expert, I feel my position is correct.”

Inverted Funnel Conclusion The first sentence of your conclusion should be the most specific sentence. This is your Re-stated Thesis Statement. The following sentences should become more and more general so that your final sentence is the most general of all. The form is the opposite of your introduction.

Re-stated Thesis Re-state your Thesis Statement, don’t repeat it! For example: If my Thesis Statement is this . . . My trip to California was the best trip I have ever taken because of the memories, the education, and the fun. My Re-stated Thesis Statement could look like this...The best vacation I ever had was my California trip this summer.

Re-stated Thesis My trip to California was the best trip I have ever taken because of the memories, the education, and the fun. The best vacation I ever had was my California trip this summer. Same ideas – different words

Let’s Practice . . . The best vacation I ever had was my California trip this summer. I’m not sure where the next vacation will take me, but I know it will have to be very special place to compete with my California memories. In this example I used the strategy that looks ahead to the future.

Now you try it! Before trying your own conclusion, try finishing my conclusion. The best vacation I ever had was my California trip this summer. ________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________.

Now try writing your conclusion! Start by re-stating your thesis statement. ___________________________________ Next, choose a strategy. Finally, write your conclusion.