Constructing a Thesis Statement
For extra practice, review the following examples and formulas for constructing a sound thesis statement.
Lite/Simple:
The moral of George Orwell’s story is that even a slum can have valuable life lessons and experiences, just as I had when I first moved to this country and started working.
Though Orwell says his job was acceptable and his neighborhood colorful, I see only misery in his situation and personally will never live in a slum again.
The main idea in Down and Out is that poverty makes for unusual social situations, and I can agree given my own experience living in an SRO.
Heavy/Advanced:
Though globalization brings a better standard of living to developing countries, international organizations should monitor and foster fair working conditions so that sweatshops can be eliminated.
Hip-hop has spread around the world to become a global phenomenon, but fans should remember its roots as an American art-form that once advocated community instead of materialism.
Although Nike is environmentally sound and provides a useful product, it is not a socially responsible company because it treats workers unjustly.
Types of Assertion:
Opinion, Policy, Evaluation, Cause, Interpretation
Tests:
1. Is the statement too vague?
2. Is the statement too explicit (e.g. “In this research project, I plan to argue _________.”)
3. Is it too subjective?
4. Is it too objective?
5. Is the statement appropriate to the assignment?
Process:
1. Start with a working thesis: “I believe X because Y.”
2. Refine your thesis through research, reading, and note-taking.
3. Refine your thesis through drafting, and then revise it as you go along.
4. Use qualifying terms to focus, narrow, and strengthen your thesis.