Definition of a Thesis Statement
Theses are not familiar to most students – even those that are already well underway in college. In high school, theses are hardly even mentioned, let alone explored and written on. Students know they should respond to a question or take a stand on an issue, but the idea of a thesis eludes them. With students ill-prepared in the very definition of a thesis, it’s no wonder that many of them encounter increasing difficulty as they tackle them in college. The stress and aggravation plaguing college students with thesis-driven assignments could easily be avoided if we simply educated them on theses in the first place!
The Dictionary Says…
The traditional definition of a thesis statement is this: “a one-sentence statement that identifies the point or claim of the paper. This statement must be supported with evidence.” This seems utterly simplistic when you read it, but nothing could be further from the truth. A thesis statement has to correctly encapsulate your entire paper – and that can be a difficult thing to invent. When defining a thesis statement, it’s important to fully understand the concept of this statement – it isn’t just about reciting the definition!
Writing Your Thesis Statement
A thesis statement, in essence, describes the reason you’re writing this paper. Let’s say you’re writing a research paper on the effects of a recent law that’s been passed. Using evidence and research, you’ve discovered that the new law has decreased violent crimes in delinquents, but left petty crimes untouched. What is the reason you’re writing this essay? To show the effect of this law on juvenile delinquent activity. When you start with your topic and research and move back to the thesis, it becomes much easier to craft a thesis statement.
Sometimes, theses are simply stating the purpose of an essay; other times, they are providing a ‘claim.’ For example, some teachers claim that using more discipline in the classroom increases students’ respect for education. Are you going to support or refute this claim? Your thesis statement should include this crucial component, identifying your issue and outlining the position you’re taking. The remainder of your essay should then include the support for your claim. An example of a good thesis statement for this proposed paper might be: “Using classrooms studies, students test scores and student interviews, I will arrive at the truth – that increased discipline in the classroom, despite teacher support, does not adequately improve students’ respect and performance in school.”
For help developing thesis statements and further explanation on thesis statement meanings, simply seek out help through online writing companies. Staffed by professional writers, these services are available any time, day or night, and offer expert opinions and advice.