Thesis Statements

THESIS STATEMENTSIn your first paragraphDoes not always have to be the first sentence.

Could be the last sentence of first paragraph.General statement about what you’re writing.

AN UMBRELLA – “Covers” the whole paper.

1. Ask a QuestionExample-

What happens when a volleyball team wins its first 14 games and then finally loses one at the end of the season?

2. Use a lively quotationExample-

“Eating carrots will grow hair on your chest,” Grandpa boomed.

3. Mention a strange or interesting detailExample-

The temperature can drop to fifty degrees below zero on the summit of Mount Everest

Incredibly, the Faircrest Wildcats had played 14 games, and they took the court at the Canton South Gym.

4. Create a Sense of DramaExample- The solitary figure limped along the rocky

trail.

5. Begin with ActionExample-

The basketball circled the rim and wobbled maddeningly before dropping through the hoop.

6. Use exclamationsExample-

Fifty dollars! You must be kidding!

7. Use humor.Example-

He emptied his pocket: a few loose coins, a house key, a handkerchief and a dead mouse.

8. Present a ProblemExample-

As the warriors crossed the narrow bridge, they spotted their enemies shooting fire arrows

9. Present an opinionExample-

All students should do one hour of homework a day.

10. Start with a Single WordExample-

Lice. How I hate lice. Six of the students in my class have lice. It was only a matter of time.

11. Set the sceneExample-

Outside, it was a cold and dreary October morning, but inside it was as hot as a sultry July afternoon. As 500 fans packed into the Canton South Gym to watch the undefeated Wildcats play the West Branch Warriors in the championship volleyball game, the chant soon began. The thunderous crowd was a sea of red and gray.