Writing Thesis Statements

A thesis should never...

• say, "This paper will be about"

• have reasons to support the claim

What answer best describes an EXPOSITORY WRITING THESIS STATEMENT?

• A specific sentence with a fact.

• A sentence that includes the author's opinion.

• A sentence that provides a broad overview of an informational topic.

• The first body paragraph of an essay.

What answer best describes a PERSUASIVE WRITING THESIS STATEMENT?

• A sentence that summarizes a story.

• A broad sentence that provides the author's opinion.

• A broad sentence that provides information about a topic.

• The first body paragraph of an essay.

Rylee is writing a persuasive essay about school uniforms. Which answer BEST represents a strong thesis statement?

• School uniforms can be found in many environments like public and private schools.

• School uniforms have a negative impact on students because uniforms restrict individuality, are expensive, and are uncomfortable.

• School uniforms restrict individuality.

• School uniforms can be both good and bad.

What answer best describes a NARRATIVE WRITING THESIS STATEMENT?

• A sentence that is found in the resolution of a story.

• A sentence or two that summarizes what the author learned or understood.

• A broad sentence that includes the author's opinion.

• A broad sentence that references what the author is writing about.

Angello is writing a narrative story about a recent trip to Argentina. What sentence is the BEST example of his narrative THESIS STATEMENT?

• Later, we visited Torres del Paine National Park.

• Staying in Buenos Aires is always exciting.

• The weather in Argentina can range from warm, sunny days to extreme snow and cold.

• I always look forward to traveling to Argentina. Seeing my family, enjoying the beautiful landscape, and relaxing on the beach always make me happy.

Jake is writing a persuasive essay about why Virginia Tech is the best college. What is the BEST example of a strong PERSUASIVE THESIS STATEMENT?

• Although there are many options for higher education in the commonwealth, it's obvious that Virginia Tech is the best choice.

• In addition to Virginia Tech's science, agriculture, and engineering programs, the school's arts and humanities classes are great as well.

• Lastly, Virginia Tech features a very competitive veterinary medicine program.

• Virginia Tech students receive the best overall education because of the strong academic programs, the opportunities for research and internships, and the exciting atmosphere and student life.

What formula should you use when you write your thesis statement?

• What + Why

• When + Where

• Why + What

• Whatever I feel like.

Where does your thesis statement need to appear in your essay?

• At the beginning of your introduction

• At the end of your introduction

• In your body paragraphs

• At the end of your entire essay

Which of the following is the strongest thesis statement?

• Friendship is cool.

• It is important to have a good friend because they'll be the ones who will be with you when you take your last breath in the end.

• Friends are the most important people in your life.

• Having friends is important.