Writer’s WorkshopAP European History

Don’t let this be you...

The Thesis Statement

• A thesis statement is a formal statement of the main idea that you want to present, which can be supported with evidence. Generally, a thesis statement appears at the end of the first paragraph of an essay, so that readers will have a clear idea of what to expect.

• A thesis statement has 2 parts: 1. Your topic - AND - 2. Your claim in regards to that topic

In other words…

SUBJECT + YOUR CLAIM =

THESIS

Avoid creating thesis statements that are simply statements of fact or based on emotion/opinion.

• Wrong: Steroids are hormone-like substances that act upon muscle tissue to make it stronger. (This is a simple statement of fact needing no support).

• Wrong: Steroid use is a foolish way to improve athletic performance. (This is a personal opinion based on emotion rather than reason).

• Wrong: Steroids can be dangerous. (This is a self-evident statement of truth).

Create a thesis statement that takes a stand.State your claim, and then set out to prove it!

• Correct: Repeated steroid use poses a health risk to athletes and undermines the integrity of athletics. (This is a formal statement of the main idea, with a claim that can be supported by evidence.)

• Wrong: Al Capone was a gangster in Chicago in the 1920’s.

• Correct: Al Capone became the most legendary gangster in the 1920’s because of his ability to run his business syndicate like a government.

• Wrong: Amelia Earhart was the first woman to fly across the Atlantic Ocean. • Correct: Amelia Earhart’s daredevil attitude toward flying and nonconformist conduct

paved the way for women to challenge themselves in the 20th century.

Test your thesis statement!

1. Do I answer the essay question?

1. Have I made a claim?

1. Can my thesis be proven?

1. Does my essay support my thesis?

Did you write a good thesis statement?

As you write and continually revise your paper, it’s okay to change your thesis statement.

Sometimes you really don’t know what you want to say until after you’ve started writing.