Developing a Thesis Statement

What is the difference? Topic Sentence– Tells the reader what a paragraph will be about – Most important part of a paragraph

Thesis Statement– Tells the reader what the composition will be about – Most important part of a composition

What is a thesis statement?A thesis statement lets the reader know your thoughts or opinions on a topicIt is in the first paragraph and is only one simple sentence It is the main idea of the composition

Topic + Opinion = Thesis

The reason for a thesis sentence: – To make an opinion that can be argued

The reason for the composition: – To support your opinion in the thesis statement You need to make sure you can support your opinion in the thesis

What does a good thesis statement look like?

1.) Thesis statements should be short and simple

Good: Success is a result of doing the right thing consistently. Bad: In a world of success professionals and books about success, it is important to focus on the one trait that determines success: doing the right things consistently.

2.) Thesis statements should only have one idea

Good: The idea to successful dieting is focusing on a specific goal.

Bad: The idea to successful dieting is focusing on a specific goal, which is also the idea to successfully being a business owner.

3.) Thesis statements should be strong and not show doubt

Good: Lebron James’ abilities to play basketball make him the best player in the NBA. Bad: Does Lebron James’ abilities make him the best player in the NBA? Bad: Lebron James’ abilities to play basketball might make him the best player in the NBA.

Other things to remember: Don’t use first person Don’t use unclear language Don’t be general with your statement Don’t use facts

I will give you a topic Discuss in your groups and decide one idea or opinion on the topic

Write a thesis statement for the topic