A thesis is the main argument of your essay, the idea you wish to
defend.
There are many ways to write a good thesis sentence, but, in
general, a thesis contains three elements: a qualification, a general reason
why your thesis is valid, and the exact position you are presenting.
The “topic” of your essay is the general category your essay
is about.
How do you decide on a topic? Well…
What do you have an opinion about? What are some
things that interest you?
Topics are just general categories-- fad diets, zombies,
space exploration, animal rights, etc...
Example of a Topic:
School.
What is one thing about your topic that you believe to be
true, and that you wish to argue?
You may already have a “position” in mind, or you may just
have a general topic you know you wish to work with.
If you do not yet have a position, making a cluster or a map
with your topic in the center is a good way to help yourself find a
position. Another good way is to begin a free write, “I’m supposed to write an
essay about____________. . .” and see where it takes you.
However you get there, write a short statement describing
your position in the space below.
Example of a Position:
Schools have too many people in them!
Is what you say always true always?
Are there exceptions?
Are there good reasons why your position may have a downside?
How can you make your position have a reality check?
What general reasons why your position may have problems can
you admit up front?
To make absolute statements usually causes your essay’s
thesis to seem foolishly simplistic. Get real!
Here’s a trick: begin your qualification with a word like
“although” or “It is true that. . .” Don’t worry if it’s not a complete
sentence.
Example Qualification:
Although schools of over a thousand
students have flourished in America
Step
Four: The Reason
In general why do you believe your position to be correct in
spite of your qualification?
What is the overall good to be gained by agreeing with your
position?
This is a general statement; your specific reasons will
follow in the body of your essay.
Example of a reason:
Small school populations lend themselves
to building a good community of learners.
Step
Five: Put them all together.
In one or two sentences, present your thesis, including a
qualification, a reason, and a position.
The classic, traditional way of combining is to first present
your qualification. This immediately demonstrates your interest in
accuracy. Then present your general reason which demonstrates your thinking
process, and finally the punch line-- your position.
Notice how in the example the qualification comes first,
then the reason, and finally the position which has become a specific
recommendation.
Example Thesis: Although schools of over a thousand students
have flourished in America
And… you’ve got yourself a thesis!
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