The thesis statement is a single sentence in the opening paragraph that sums up what the essay is about. Every essay should have a thesis statement that functions like a road sign, telling the reader where the essay should go.
A thesis statement has three practical aims:
The thesis statement is where you take a stand on the topic. Make yours strong, definite, and clear.
Format for thesis statements : This will give you the basic idea for your statement.
Topic: ______________________________________________________________
Organizing Features :_ __________________________________________________
Feelings or understanding :_ ______________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
Another format for the concept is this:
Subject Limited Subject+ Opinion = Thesis Statement
Sports
Example :
Topic: Crossword Puzzles
Organizing Features: Two subtopics: what makes doing crossword puzzles addicting and what makes doing them educational.
Feelings or understanding: The writer enjoys doing crossword puzzles.
Common Faults of the Thesis Statement :
The most common faults of thesis statements are as follows:
• Too narrow
• Too broad
• Uncommitted
• Unclear
Keywords : These are words that add a discussible edge to the thesis statement.
A good thesis statement, in short:
Adapted from: “Writing Talk: Paragraphs and Essays with Readings .” Winkler& McCuen-Methrell , Pearson Education; Upper Saddle River . 2002.
Research Project Requirements:
• NEW pocketed, braded
Folder
• Include the following:
• Front pockets: bib and note cards
• Brads: Final draft of research paper
• Back pocket: ancillary materials
• Bib and note cards required are the practice cards if you don’t do cards for your project
• Cover sheet of research project should be done exactly as is shown on the website.
• All figures (IE pictures, charts, etc.) must be inserted into the research paper itself in the manner described in your handbook
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