Expository (Research) Essay

1. Expository (Research) Essay The Thesis Statement

2. What is a thesis statement? • the argument • the main idea • the purpose of the paper • 1-2 sentences that give a preview – a road map – of what you’re writing about and the main points you’re going to discuss.

3. Why do I need a thesis statement? • It is important for the writer, because it gives the structure of the paper. • It is important for the reader, because it tells the point of the paper right away.

4. Where do I put the thesis statement? • In the last 1-2 sentences of the introduction.

5. How do I construct the thesis statement? • Topic + • Main Points + • Opinion = • Thesis Statement! • Topic = The person you researched. • Main Points = Summary of topic sentences. • Opinion = Your overall conclusion about this person.

6. Thesis Construction: Sample • Topic: Judy Garland • Main Points: She had successes and challenges. • Opinion: She overcame them well and was a big success! • Draft Thesis: Judy Garland had many hardships before she was a success; but she overcame the challenges and is remembered for her successes. • Final Thesis: Although faced with many personal problems and hardships throughout her life, Judy Garland remains one of the forerunners in the cinema industry due to her success as an actress and entertainer.

7. Thesis Construction: Sample • Topic: Pablo Picasso • Main Points: He was a talented hard worker and very successful during his life. • Opinion: He worked hard for his success. • Draft Thesis: Pablo Picasso was a talented hard-worker who loved to learn; so he earned his fame. • Final Thesis: Picasso was very talented, but he also loved learning and hard work. These characteristics are what led him to be the famous man he is today.

8. Drafting Your Thesis Statement • Follow the directions on your worksheet to draft your own thesis statement 