Presentation 2
Presentation 2
Essay
ING 113
A thesis statement is an
argument that you present
A topic is a general area of based on your topic. The
inquiry or the general subject complexity of your thesis
of your paper. statement will depend on the
length and purpose of your
paper.
The Thesis Statement
A thesis statement is a single, complete sentence that succinctly expresses your view concerning a particular topic. Your
thesis statement should explain the significance of the evidence and information you’ve gathered; it should not be a
restatement of the actual information itself. It will generally be included in the introductory paragraph of your essay, often
serving as the final sentence of that paragraph, and you must be sure that you support the statement in the body of the
essay.
There are two two rules set out on thesis statement writing:
Debatable Scope
Tips for Constructing the Thesis Statement
A thesis statement should not contain two conflicting ideas. If two ideas are in conflict, it is impossible to support
them both.
A thesis statement should never be so broad that it’s difficult to discuss all of the relevant information.
A thesis statement is an assertion that requires evidence and support, not a universally agreed-upon fact or an
observation.
A universally agreed-upon fact or an observation: People use many lawn chemicals.
Thesis: People are poisoning the environment with chemicals merely to keep their lawns green.
Tips for Constructing the Thesis Statement
A thesis takes a stand rather than announcing a subject.
Announcement: The thesis of this paper is the difficulty of solving our environmental problems.
Thesis: Solving our environmental problems is more difficult than many environmentalists believe.
A thesis is the main idea, not the title. It must be a complete sentence that expresses in some detail what claim you
plan to support.
Title: Social Security and Old Age
Thesis: Continuing changes in the Social Security System make it almost impossible to plan
intelligently for retirement.
Tips for Constructing the Thesis Statement
A thesis statement is narrow not broad. If it is sufficiently narrow, it can be fully supported.
The World’s Fair in New Orleans was a disaster because of the way the press criticized the way it was run, but it was
exciting for little children and had many good food booths.
TV commercials are obnoxious to the person who is intent on watching a good show; on the other hand, they provide
entertainment in the antics of the performers, and they provide a good opportunity to take a snack break.
Since politicians are constantly bombarding each other, how do they expect anyone to know who is right and who is wrong?
Unless people are conscious of pollution, the world will be destroyed by the year 2050.
Rap is both a creative and original form of music; it also has its roots in American jazz.
Constructing the Thesis Statement
Always have in mind a general topic that you wish to write about. Some people like to try and think of a thesis
statement before they start writing their paper or even at outline. Others start with some version of pre-writing (free-
writing or a loose outline) and then work on creating a solid thesis. In any case, it is always important to go back and
revise your thesis statement as your paper develops.
Some critics are concerned about security at the UPR in Rio Piedras. Evaluate the security procedures at the
University and argue whether or not they need to be improved. If so, recommend improvements. If not, state
your reasons as to why the status quo is sufficient.
Step 1: Read the Assignment
The assignment can guide you as you organize your essay. Often, it contains important clues about the kind of
essay you need to write. Read the assignment carefully: what is it asking you to do?
Brainstorm