Identifying Thesis Statements and Main Ideas

Which sentence best represents the thesis statement of an essay?

• A detail about a study conducted on climate change.

• The main argument or central claim of the essay.

• A counterargument to an opposing viewpoint.

• A concluding remark about the topic.

Which of the following characteristics is NOT true about a strong thesis statement?

• It is specific and focused.

• It expresses the writer's opinion clearly.

• It presents multiple unrelated ideas.

• It provides direction for the essay.

Which of the following is the strongest thesis statement?

• Social media affects people's lives in many ways.

• Social media has both positive and negative effects.

• The rise of social media has revolutionized communication but has also contributed to increased mental health issues.

• This essay will talk about social media and its impact.

Where is the thesis statement most commonly found in an academic essay?

• In the introduction, usually at the end of the first paragraph.

• In the middle of the body paragraphs.

• In the conclusion to summarize the argument.

• In the first supporting paragraph.

Which thesis statement is too broad?

• Fast food contributes to obesity in teenagers.

• The use of renewable energy can help combat climate change.

• Education is important for people around the world.

• Bilingualism benefits cognitive development in children.

What is the main idea of a paragraph?

• A minor detail that supports the argument.

• The general topic of the entire essay.

• The most important point the paragraph is making.

• A quotation used to support the argument.

Where is the main idea typically found in a paragraph?

• In the first sentence (topic sentence).

• Only in the last sentence.

• Randomly placed anywhere in the paragraph.

• Outside the paragraph in the conclusion.

Which sentence expresses the main idea of the paragraph?

• Exercise can improve cardiovascular health, increase energy levels, and enhance mental well-being.

• A study found that people who exercise regularly have lower risks of heart disease.

• Many doctors recommend 150 minutes of exercise per week.

• Research shows that physical activity helps reduce stress.

Which of the following best describes an implied main idea?

• A main idea that is stated directly in a sentence.

• A main idea that is only found in the conclusion.

• A main idea that is suggested through supporting details rather than stated explicitly.

• A main idea that is unrelated to the supporting details.

Which question helps determine the main idea of a paragraph?

• What is this paragraph mainly about?

• What is one example used in this paragraph?

• What is the writer's personal opinion?

• What is the counterargument?