Writing Workshop Writing A Strong Thesis Statement What
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Writing Workshop: Writing A Strong Thesis Statement
What Is a Thesis Statement? � It’s the backbone of your paper. A 1 -2 sentence statement of opinion on a topic that you will set out to prove by the end of your essay. � It is best to state your thesis in the introduction so the reader knows your opinion early on! �
Your Job Right now… Locate your thesis statement. Then, highlight or underline it.
What a Strong Thesis Statement Looks � 1 to 2 sentences long �States an opinion on a topic and is arguable (can be defended using evidence) �Uses strong, defining language [the writer’s voice or personality is apparent] �Sets the tone for the remainder of the paper �Appears early in the essay so the reader has a clear idea of what you will prove
A Weak Thesis Statement “Weisel uses pathos to write his story. ” What does it lack? � No tone � Too short � No definition or clarity on the meaning of the topic � Too many questions remain unanswered (What is pathos? In what way? Why? ). � It is fact and not opinion. � In summary, the author will most likely not do a very good job of arguing his or her point because he or she doesn’t know what they’re trying to argue (lol!).
A Stronger Thesis Statement Elie Wiesel’s memoire Night conveys powerful emotions that leave the reader sympathetic with the pain and suffering that he experienced as a prisoner in a Nazi concentration camp. Through his various stories, Weisel’s story reminds readers about the dangers of excluding others from our universe of obligation.
Your Job Rewrite your thesis statement with these characteristics in mind: � 1 to 2 sentences long �states an opinion on a topic and is arguable �uses strong, defining language [the writer’s voice is apparent] �sets the tone �appears early in the essay so the reader has a clear idea of what you will prove
Your Job 1. Give your thesis statement a score of 1 -5) 5 being the highest). 2. At the end of your essay, Provide an explanation for why you gave yourself that score. Be specific! 3. Show Mr. Eisner your work.