10/21/2013

Thesis Statement A thesis statement is a complete sentence that contains one main idea. This idea controls the content of the entire essay.

Key Features Thesis Statement states the main idea of the essay in a complete sentence. DOES NOT state the topic, itself. is NOT a question. often lists subtopics.

Make your thesis statement more specific by including subtopics or supporting ideas. This gives your reader a clear idea of what will follow in the entire essay. Subtopics

Avoid using statements like, “This essay will discuss…” or “I’m going to write about…”. Write a thesis statement that captures your reader’s attention. Don’t State the Obvious

is short and simple: it should be no longer than one sentence, regardless of essay length. A GOOD THESIS STATEMENT: Good Example: Success is a result of doing the right things consistently. Bad Example: In a world full of success gurus and books about success, it becomes ever so more important to delineate the one trait that ultimately determines success: doing the right things consistently.

is limited to one main idea. Good example: The key to successful dieting is focusing on a specific goal. Bad example: The key to successful dieting is focusing on a specific goal, which is also the key to successfully running a business and coaching a football team. A GOOD THESIS STATEMENT:

is a declarative sentence (NOT A QUESTION) and does not use might, maybe, perhaps, etc. BE CONFIDENT IN WHAT YOU ARE STATING! A GOOD THESIS STATEMENT: Good example: Lebron James' ability to score, pass, and rebound makes him the league's most valuable player. Bad example: Does Lebron James' ability to score, pass, and rebound make him the league's most valuable player? Bad Example: Lebron James' ability to score, pass, and rebound just might make him the league's most valuable player.

Whole Class Do you agree or disagree that all high schools should make their students wear school uniforms? Why or why not? Explain.

Whole Class Do you agree or disagree that living in a big city is better than living in a small town? Explain.

Think about a world-class athlete. Explain why you include this person in that category.

Explain the problems that result from obesity.

Explain how communication has changed throughout the last 20 years.

English is a required subject. Explain why it is so important.

Explain the effects of a poor diet.