Developmental Reading: The Thesis Statement

Thesis Statement

  • The main idea of an essay.
  • A point to argue or support.
  • The writer's opinion.
  • Usually one sentence in the introduction.

What to Avoid

  • First person (I believe, etc.).
  • Unclear language (It seems, etc.).
  • Attempting two topics.

Thesis Statement Issues & Solutions

  • Too broad: "The world is a magnificent place to live in." --> "The world provides us with our basic needs."
  • Too wordy: "Some problems Sta. Maria Elementary School is that it needs…" --> "Sta. Maria Elementary School needs several changes to its facility…"
  • Too general: "Sta. Maria Elementary School is a good school." --> "Daily writing practice has led to improved writing skills…"
  • A title: "Cost of Living" --> "The cost of living in a barrio is lower than in the cities in the Philippines."
  • A fact: "Baguio City is known as the Summer Capital in the Philippines." --> "The climate in Baguio City attracts many tourists."

Thesis Statement Examples

  • "Living things are made up of organ systems which work together to help organisms meet their basic needs to survive."
  • "All organisms, big or small consist of cells."

Good Thesis Statement Examples

  • "One reason to live in a Barrio is that there is access to many wonderful adventures to experience."
  • "Smoking causes diseases in the respiratory system which may damage the organs and tissues."
  • "Music therapy is useful in relieving stress and other conditions."
  • "Good teaching has led to an increase in TCAP scores at Mountain City Elementary."
  • "Recycling is one of the most important jobs a person can do to protect our environment."
  • "Today’s movies do not have the emotional impact of the classic horror movies of the 1940’s."
  • "Although many people find rap music offensive, it has had a positive impact on today’s youth."
  • "The first white water rafting trip can challenge a person both in body and spirit."
  • "The life of a typical grade student is challenging due to the need to succeed in extracurricular activities."
  • "Students should help others who are less fortunate."