The Analytical Paper Writing the thesis

Your assignment Write an analytical paper about the use of cell phones and pre-teens. Research shows that 80% of pre-teens own a cell phone. Do you think pre- teens should have a cell phone? Could there be another way for them to communicate? What is the purpose of the cell phone for a pre-teen?

Thesis A single argument about how or why something is the way it is Should be specific One strong sentence found in the introduction – Usually the last sentence of the paragraph Can be supported with evidence

Developing a thesis  Start by brainstorming  Write as many ideas as possible  Cell phones are life savers  Teens can communicate with friends  Parents have access  Will call mom for ride  Creates responsibility

Developing a thesis  Ask “how” and “why” questions  How does the cell phone encourage independence?  Why does a pre-teen need a cell phone?  Why is a cell phone considered a luxury?  How can cell phones benefit a pre-teen?  Answers to these questions will lead to the thesis

Developing a thesis  Cross out ideas that may be difficult to prove  Narrow topics to two to four  Research your ideas  Can you find relevant support?  What are the arguments for and against?  Choose most relevant and interesting idea

Writing the thesis Usually one strong sentence – There has never been a more relevant time than now for a pre-teen to own and use a cell phone for the purpose of communicating with friends and family about location, needs, and concerns.

The thesis Be prepared for reformulating the thesis – This is part of the process During the research and writing process, you may come across: – new findings – lack of support – disagreement with thesis