Writing Workshop: Thesis Statements Basic tips for a more effective thesis:
1. Make it "specific, pointed, and provocative [interesting / debatable]: the kind of statement that promises to reveal something NEW" (H & L 37)For the Basic Analysis: End the introduction with a FOCUSED and ARGUMENTATIVE thesis statement that links a THEME (a "so what") to a NARRATIVE STRATEGY. You can determine if your thesis ARGUES by asking yourself, "Could someone else CHALLENGE / DISAGREE with this statement?" If not, think about it a bit longer.2. It should serves as a plan ("blueprint" /outline) for the essay.
3. It should appears at the end of the introduction.
Internalizing the Criteria In your group, rate these thesis statements based on criteria # 1 & 2 above. Which make the clearest and most argumentative statement? The weakest? Why?
- Twain suggests a change from selfishness to selflessness through the image of Huck's journey.
- Looking at her conflict, Waverly faces a problem resulting from her inner strength, she somehow copes with this dilemma, and as a result, she learns and grows from it.
- Poe uses images related to death to give meaning to the story.
Implement the Criteria 1. Locate and re-read your thesis.
2. Now that you've found it, REVISE the thesis to insure that it meets the basic criteria we've discussed.
3. Pair up with a group member. Read your old and new thesis to him / her. Discuss whether the revised thesis meets the basic criteria. If not, work together on additional revisions.