Name _______________
Writing A Strong Thesis Statement
Directions: Read the thesis statements below. Circle which style
you will use to write your thesis statement and highlight the example.
There are 3 basic ways to write a thesis statement. Choose the style
that fits your topic and research. Let’s say that your topic is The
Roman Wars of Expansion.
Thesis Statement 1 takes a position on the topic:
The Roman Wars of Expansion were destructive for Roman society,
causing high unemployment rates among the lower and middle
classes, ending a republican form of government and encouraging
destructive civil wars between its powerful military leaders.
The paper that follows thesis statement 1 should present an argument
and give evidence to support the claim that the wars of expansion
were destructive for Roman society.
Thesis Statement 2 explains something to its readers
The Roman Wars of Expansion brought large quantities of grain
and luxury goods to Rome, increased the slave population and allowed
Rome to control the Mediterranean region.
The paper that follows should explain how large quantities of grain and
luxury goods were imported to Rome, the slave population increased
and Rome controlled the Mediterranean region.