Writing Strong Thesis Statements

1. Writing Strong Thesis Statements Parts of a Thesis: Narrower Title & Author Stance 3 Prongs Thesis Statement: The “road map” of the paper that states and supports an argument. What is the paper trying to prove?

2. Narrower • “Although” or “Despite” words and phrases • ex:Although there are many characters

3. Title & Author • Titles are always underlined or italicized; place a comma after the title • ex: in Stephanie Meyer’s novel Twilight,

4. Stance • The argument/your position • ex: the most important character is Bella,

5. 3 Prongs • Three statements that link to the three body paragraphs • ex: because she crosses boundaries and spends time with the Cullen family, she drives the action of the story, and she is desired by many characters including Edward and Jacob.

6. Thesis Statement • Although there are many characters in Stephanie Meyer’s novel Twilight,the most important character is Bella, because she crosses boundaries and spends time with the Cullen family, she drives the action of the story, and she is desired by many characters including Edward and Jacob.

7. On your white board, identify the narrowing phrase. • Although there are many wonderful teachers at Neuqua Valley, Miss Baumann is the best because she is creative, kind, and funny.

8. On your white board, identify the argument. • Although there are many things one can do during option period, going to the academic resource room is the smartest use of time because one can get his/her homework done correctly, free up time for more socializing, and gain the opportunity to build positive relationships with teachers.

9. On your white board, identify the three prongs. • Although there are several interesting TV shows on the air, Gossip Girl is the most interesting to watch because it is fashionable, dramatic, and engaging.

10. On your white board, identify the argument. • Although there are many attractive clothing items to wear to football games, one should wear GOLD RUSH colors because it shows support for one’s team, makes one part of the NVHS community, and cuts down on prep time.