The Thesis StatementA Road Map for Your Project

Adapted from Ruth Luman, Modesto Junior College

Thesis StatmentPersuasion

Now that you have researched both sides of your topic, you are ready to write your thesis statement.

What’s a thesis statement?

DefinitionThesis Statement

A thesis statement is a complete sentence that acts as a road map for your project—it summarizes what you believe about your topic and gives 3 reasons why.

Thesis = what you believe about your topic + 3 reasons why

Class PracticeThesis Statement

Topic: Organic foodsPosition: People should eat more locally-grown organic food Reasons:

1. organic foods are healthier and tastier2. farming methods are better for the environment3. buying locally-grown food reduces transportation costs

Thesis Statement: People should eat more locally-grown organic food because organic foods are healthier and tastier, the farming methods are better for the environment, and it reduces transportation costs.

Class PracticeThesis Statement

Topic: Death PenaltyPosition: We should abolish the death penaltyReasons:

1. it is not a deterrent to crime2. it is a cruel and unusual punishment and therefore outlawed by our constitution3. it unfairly affects the poor and minorities

Thesis Statement: Because it does not deter crime, because it affects the poor and minorities unfairly and because it constitutes cruel and unusual punishment, the United States should abolish the death penalty.

Your TurnThesis Statement

• Which side of the issue do you most agree with (pro/con)? – What solution/action do you recommend?

(i.e. We want people to use more reusable products instead of disposable ones.)

• What are the 3 most convincing reasons from your research for your position?

• Put it all together in one sentence.

Thesis = what you believe about your topic + 3 reasons why

On a piece of looseleaf. . .

• My topic: _______________

• Write at least 3 different thesis statements – each time playing with your words, really working on the ideas of loaded language in support of your topic

• Choose your best one and re-write it at the bottom of your outline.