First Draft Thesis Statement:

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1 Name Developing a Thesis Throughout this course, you will be asked to develop arguments in regard to the topics we study. When making an argument, it is imperative that you first state your thesis. The purpose of a thesis is to outline the position that you are taking and the reasons for that position. This sheet will help you to formulate thesis statements. Remember that a strong thesis has three main elements: a subject, a position, and reasons for that position. First Draft Thesis Statement: Your Subject/Issue/Topic: Your Position: Your Reason(s): Check to make sure that your statement meets the requirements for being a strong thesis. 1. A strong thesis takes a stand. 2. A strong thesis justifies discussion. 3. A strong thesis expresses one main idea. 4. A strong thesis is specific. Final Thesis Statement:

2 Name: Period: DEVELOPING THESIS STATEMENTS Throughout this course, you will be asked to develop arguments in regard to the topics we study. When making an argument, it is imperative that you first state your thesis. The purpose of a thesis is to outline the position that you are taking and the reasons for that position. Today, you will be analyzing and exploring the components and characteristics of thesis statements. Please complete the exercise below by reading both statements and filling out the graphic organizer. REQUIREMENT 1: A. There are both positive and negative potential outcomes from requiring mandatory school uniforms. B. Mandatory school uniforms are negative because they infringe upon student artistic expression, and could be a potential financial burden on parents. What is being argued in the REQUIREMENT 2: A. Toy poodles have hair rather than fur. B. Toy poodles are the ideal pet for an individual with allergies because their hair is less irritating, they shed less frequently, and they are easier to bathe. What is being argued in the

3 REQUIREMENT 3: A. Companies need to exploit the marketing potential of the Internet, but the Internet can be a very dangerous place for teens. B. Companies should exploit the tremendous marketing potential of the lnternet by using web pages that offer both advertising and customer support. What is being argued in the REQUIREMENT 4: A. Global warming has been sped up as a result of many causes. B. Global warming has been sped up as a result of irresponsible industrial pollution, and by the carelessness of society, in addition to the natural environmental progression. What is being argued in the

4 NAME WEAK THESIS STATEMENTS: Using the equation boxes below, correct each weak thesis statement. In some cases, you may need to change or add to the existing statements with your own subject, position, or reasons. 1. Guilford High School is fantastic. 2. McDonald s is far superior to Wendy s, but both pale in comparison to Taco Bell. 3. In my opinion, chocolate ice cream is the best because it contains antioxidants and when consumed, releases endorphins into your body (which brighten your mood). 4. The Yankees have been historically known as being a good team, however the Red Sox are equally as good because they won a more recent World Series. 5. Throughout history, wars have been fought for many reasons. 6. Guilford High School has over one thousand students.

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