Elements of a Thesis Statement

Writing a Strong Thesis Statement

Many students fail to see the importance of a strong thesis statement; however, it is a requirement for a well-written paper.

• a question

• a fact

• a quote

• too general or too narrow

Should not be

• Declare the argument of your essay

• Be written as a statement

• Make a debatable claim

• Be specific

Should

A thesis statement

​Source: University of Arizona Writing Center

​Position + Reasons=Thesis

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Open Ended

In your own words, explain what a thesis statement is and why it's essential to writing a strong essay.

Poll

Is this an effective thesis statement?

Many people use social media to connect with friends and family.

• Yes

• No

Poll

Is this an effective thesis statement?

Should minors be allowed to get a tattoo without parent permission?

• Yes

• No

Poll

Is this an effective thesis statement?

A college education is not the right choice for everyone, as many students graduate with a large amount of student debt and limited job opportunities.

• Yes

• No

Poll

Is this an effective thesis statement?

Adolescents’ brains are not fully developed, and they are not yet capable of making adult decisions; thus, adolescents should not be sentenced as adults.

• Yes

• No

Open Ended

Write the topic, position, and reason stated in this thesis statement:

Adolescents’ brains are not fully developed, and they are not yet capable of making adult decisions; thus, adolescents should not be sentenced as adults.