1. The Thesis Statement APUSH

2. What is it?  Provides an answer to all parts of the question  Sets forth a central arguable position in response to question; must be a contestable point with which people could reasonably disagree  Clearly asserts your own conclusion based on the evidence; an interpretation of the question, NOT a restatement of the question

3. What is it? (cont…)  Anticipates and refutes counter arguments  Avoids vague language  Avoids the first person  Serves as road map for paper (tells reader what to expect from the rest of paper)  Is usually one sentence

4. How do I get it?  Results from lengthy thinking process  Follows process of collection and organizing evidence  Requires a willingness to adjust as needed

5. How do I know I’ve got it?  Did I answer the question?  Have I taken a position that others might challenge or oppose?  Is my thesis statement specific enough?  Does my essay support my thesis specifically and without wandering?

6. Example 1  Question: Compare and contrast the reasons why the North and South fought the Civil War.  Response: The North and South fought the Civil War for many reasons, some of which were the same and some different.  Problems: restates question; adds no additional information

7. Example 1 (cont…)  Question: Compare and contrast the reasons why the North and South fought the Civil War.  Response: The North and South fought the Civil War for many reasons, some of which were the same and some different.  Better Response: While both side fought the Civil War over the issue of slavery, the North fought for moral reasons while the South fought to preserve its own institutions.

8. Example 1 (cont…)  Question: Compare and contrast the reasons why the North and South fought the Civil War.  Response: The North and South fought the Civil War for many reasons, some of which were the same and some different.  Better Response: While both side fought the Civil War over the issue of slavery, the North fought for moral reasons while the South fought to preserve its own institutions.  Even Better: While both Northerners and Southerners believed they fought against tyranny and oppression, Northerners focused on the oppression of slaves while Southerners defended their own right to self-government.