Argumentative Writing Unit: Lesson 2 - Thesis Statements
What is a Thesis Statement?
- A one-sentence statement summarizing the essay's content.
- Prepares the reader for what's to come.
- Drives the entire paper.
Steps to Develop a Thesis
- Start with a Question
- Example: Is bottled water better than tap water?
- Choose a Side
- Example: People should choose tap water over bottled water.
- Add Key Arguments
- Example Thesis: People should choose tap water over bottled water because it's less expensive, more environmentally friendly, and less likely to contain microplastics.
Purpose of a Thesis Statement
- Takes a strong position.
- Convinces the reader based on strong evidence provided.
- Acts as a roadmap for the rest of the paper.
Important Characteristics of Thesis Statements
- Debatable:
- Makes a claim that people can agree or disagree with.
- Example: "Pollution is bad" is not debatable.
- Assertive:
- Clearly shows stance on the topic.
- Example: "Tap water is better than bottled water."
- Evidence-Based:
- Supported by facts, statistics, or quotes.
- Avoids value or moral beliefs without evidence.
Main Points of a Thesis
- Briefly outlines main points of the essay.
- Provides a clear idea of the discussion topics.
- Serves as a roadmap to keep writing organized.
Practice Example
- Thesis Statement: Cats are better pets than dogs because cats are independent, are quieter, and can care for themselves.
- Claim: Cats are better pets than dogs.
- Main Points:
- Cats are independent.
- Cats are quieter.
- Cats can care for themselves.
Additional Resources
- Links to activities and lessons for writing a quality argumentative paper are available for further help.
Note: This lesson is part of a series that will continue with Lesson 3.