
An effective thesis statement tells readers
specifically what you plan to write about in
your paper. It also serves as a personal guide
to keep you on track.




A thesis statement usually takes a stand or
expresses a specific feeling or feature of your
subject.
Examples:
Although Cole Matthews and Stargirl Caraway are
involved in different conflicts in their respective
novels, the characters are surprisingly similar.
With incidents of cyber bullying on the rise, many
schools, teens, lawmakers, and even social
networking sites are working to stop the problem.


Although Cole Matthews and Stargirl Caraway
are involved in different conflicts in their
respective novels, the characters are
surprisingly similar.
With incidents of cyber bullying on the rise,
many schools, teens, lawmakers, and even
social networking sites are working to stop the
problem.


Formula
Specific Subject + a particular stand, feeling, or feature=
An effective thesis statement:
Writing Assignment: Research paper about the environment
Specific subject – Recycling
Feature – benefits
Thesis:
Recycling is beneficial to the environment.
Effective Thesis Statement:
Writing Assignment: Research paper about human
growth and development
Specific Subject: Personality traits
Feature: Influence of peers
Thesis: A person’s personality is shaped by a person’s
peer group







A Thesis Statement
Should…
Tell the topic of the essay
State the view and purpose for
writing
Suggest what the paper will be
about and how it will be
organized
Be based on facts and
information
Use clear and specific language
Engage the reader’s interest







A Thesis Statement
Should NOT…
Be an incomplete thought
Be a simple statement of fact
Express a sweeping opinion
Be stated as an announcement:
“In this paper I will show
that…”
Be too general or overemotional
In Not a question!






Identifies a specific subject
Focuses on a particular feature or feeling about
the subject
Is stated in a clear, direct sentence or sentences
Can be supported with convincing facts and
details
Focuses on the topic assigned
Every paragraph in the paper supports this
statement


Now you try…
Read each of the following. Decide whether
each is an effective thesis statement. Be
prepared to defend your answer.
Los Angeles and New York are about 3,000 miles
apart.
 High ticket prices and athletes who are paid too
much.
 A diet that is low in carbohydrates is the best way to
maintain a healthy weight.



Carousel Brainstorming Activity
Formula
Specific Subject
+
a particular stand, feeling, or
feature
=
An effective thesis statement


Read the following prompt, and create a thesis
statement which meets the requirements
discussed in class today.
Choose a problem that really interests you. Write an
essay in which you explain the problem, examine its
causes, and explore possible solutions.
Possible Problems to Explore:
 Stereotypes of teenagers
 Environmental issues
 School lunches
 Cheating in professional sports