Thesis Tips

 

What is a Thesis Statement? A thesis statement should indicate a clear position with a qualification, argument, and evidence.

Here are some DOS & DONTS:
Do....

• Supply reasoning and an overview of evidence in your thesis.
• Consider and address any exceptions to your argument using words like however, although, or despite.

Don't....

• Simply state the obvious. These ARE NOT thesis statements: These stories take place in Africa. These stories are told from the point of view of children.
• Forget that a thesis needs to make an arguable point. These ARE thesis statements. These stories take place in Africa and accurately depict conditions there. These stories are told from the point of view of children, which makes the reader feel more invested in their outcome.
• Forget that you must be able to provide evidence that SHOWS, EXPLAINS, or PROVES your thesis.
• EVER begin a thesis with "I believe" "I think" "In this essay I will tell you about ...."

Here is a template for wording your thesis.

Although/Despite/Even though _____[QUALIFICATION], _____________[POSITION]for example/demonstrated by/indicated in/ ___________[EVIDENCE].

Here's an example:
Although the stories take place in war-torn Africa, both "In My Parents' Bedroom" and "Fattening for Gabon" feature moments of hope and beauty, such as Monique's family's willingness to save other Tutsi, Monique's tender care for her brother, and Kotchikpa's gratitude for things other children do not have.

Let's look at how this could be made into an outline.

I. Introduction
A. Hook.
B. Context.
C. Thesis.

II. Example 1 - Monique's family's willingness to help Tutsi. Write a topic sentence _______________.
A. Detail - give quote or paraphrase from book.
B. Explain how it's an example of beauty or hope.

III. Example 2 - Monique's tender care for her brother. Write a topic sentence ____________________.
A. Detail - give quote or paraphrase from book.
B. Explain how it's an example of beauty or hope.

IV. Example 3 - Kotchikpa's gratitude for the things other children do not have. Write a topic sentence _____________________.
A. Detail - give quote or paraphrase from book.
B. Explain how it's an example of beauty or hope.

V. Conclusion