AP Language Defensible Thesis Statements

What is a thesis statement?

• A general idea of what the essay is about
• A summary of the main idea
• A statement that explains the main idea of an essay
• A suggestion that you should read the essay

True or False: The thesis statement should express a main idea that links to supporting points in the body paragraphs.

• True
• False

Where should a thesis statement appear?

• first paragraph
• anywhere in the essay
• last paragraph
• the first sentence of every paragraph

How long is a thesis statement?

• 1-2 sentences
• 1-2 paragraphs
• 1-2 words
• 1-2 pages

How many parts should there be in a thesis statement?

• Four
• Three
• Two 
• One

What three parts make up a thesis statement?

• identification of topic/focus, the purpose/claim, and at least 3 subtopics/supporting points
• topic sentence, introduction, and conclusion
• introduction, a quote or paraphrase, and conclusion
• why I chose the topic, why it is a great topic, my personal connection to the topic

When creating a thesis statement, it is important to think about your...

• topic
• purpose
• audience
• all of the above

A formal style and an objective tone will...

• show a respectful and professional attitude toward your readers
• help readers focus on your ideas
• ensure readers take your ideas seriously
• all of the above

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.4

CCSS.RL.6.4

CCSS.RL.7.4

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.9-10.4

True or False: It is best to use a quote in your thesis statement to support your point of view.

• True
• False

True or False: The best thesis statements are formed into a question.

• True
• False