Writing the Thesis Paragraph

WRITING THE THESIS PARAGRAPH

1. Start with 2-3 background sentences, which set the stage by providing background describe the setting of the prompt you are addressing.

2. Write one sentence, which clearly states your thesis. This sentence specifically addresses the prompt AND is more than just a simple rephrasing of the prompt.

3. Write 1-2 sentences that will indicate how you are going to prove your thesis. There should be at least three quality topics that can support your thesis.

EXAMPLE:

Prompt: Choose six popular sports figures from at least three different sporting activities during the 1920s. Research the background, careers of these individuals, and their impact on mainstream popular culture. Present this information in an enlarged sports card. Each sports card should contain 2-3 paragraphs of information as well as statistics, pictures, etc.

Sample Paragraph:

Part of the “roar” of the “Roaring Twenties” was the growth of the economy and the extra wages that came with increased profits. With more free time and disposable income, Americans began spending more of that time and money indulging in leisure activities such as watching sporting events. During the decade of the 1920s, professional athletes became wildly popular and many of them became heroes to fans who watched their careers. The careers of Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Ty Cobb, Jack Dempsey, Red Grange and Johnny Weissmuller became an vital part of popular culture and American history.

THE BREAKDOWN:

1. The background sentences:

2. The Thesis

. During the decade of the 1920s, professional athletes became wildly popular and many of them became heroes to fans who watched their careers.

3. The Support

The careers of Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Ty Cobb, Jack Dempsey, Red Grange and Johnny Weissmuller became an vital part of popular culture and American history.