3.4

 

Remember to read Developing the Thesis before completing this assignment so that you know what a thesis is supposed to do. 

1. What does your thesis claim? What does it argue? Here is an example of a viable thesis: Students should be required to take college preparatory classes in high school before they are allowed to graduate.

• Notice that this thesis is arguable-- many would disagree that students should have to take college prep courses before they can graduate. 
• Notice that the writer of this thesis has to convince the readers that this thesis is a real solution to the problem and a good idea.
• Notice that this thesis doesn't simply state the obvious or is an observation. This is an example of an observation, not a thesis: First-generation college students face difficulties that other students do not. 
  • This sentence states something the reader already knows. It's not an opinion that has to be defended or proven because it just is true. Go beyond this and write a claim or a solution to the problem that not everyone would agree with. 

2. What part of your thesis is arguable? What won't some people agree with and why? Please explain. 

• Again, ask yourself: Is my thesis just an observation? In other words, am I stating something general like "there are pros and cons to this," or "there is a solution," which does not take a side or make an argument? If it isn't arguable, how can you make it so that it is?