Thesis Statements

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Thesis Statements
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What is a Thesis Statement?

• Summary sentence that supports your opinion
  ideas of an ENTIRE essay or paper
• Explains topic, reasoning, main points
• Explains the purpose of the essay
• Usually the last sentence of the introductory
  paragraph- NOT always
• One sentence

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Introductory Paragraph

• In an essay,introductory paragraph will contain
  THESIS and should start with opinions, facts and
  other details supporting the thesis statement
• NOT the same as a simple paragraph
• DONT FREAK OUT!!!- You will see
• see examples later

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Why Use a Thesis Statement?

• To put main ideas in one summary sentence
• To better organize and develop the
  opinion/argument of the essay
• To provide the reader with a guide to what you
  have to say

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Creating a Thesis Statement

• Should answer ONE single question that will give
  the main idea
• EX What are the benefits of using computers in
  school?
• ANSWER The benefits of using computers in
  school are (now give 3 supporting reasons)

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Example

• The benefits of using computers in school include
  increased typing skills, improved writing skills
  and a better knowledge of using resources on the
  Internet.

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Compare These Statements

• There are some negative and positive factors to
  the Banana Herb Supplement.
• The Banana Herb Supplement helps rapid weight
  loss but also results in the loss of muscle, and
  the increase in heartbeat and blood pressure, so
  it poses a potential threat to customers.

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The Stronger Thesis

• The second sentence presented a stronger thesis
  statement.
• WHY?
• Remember A strong thesis explains ONE MAIN IDEA
  and IS SPECIFIC!

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Pick the Best Thesis

• Soda is not healthy to drink because of its sugar
  content and lack of nutritional value, so schools
  should not serve soda.
• Schools should not serve soda at lunch because of
  the high sugar content in some sodas, which
  contribute to poor nutrition, lack of focus and
  motivation and poor focus in class.