Public Speaking

Preparing Thesis Statements

Write a good thesis statement for each of the following topic ideas:  

1. describing a nearby tourist attraction  

2. introducing a service available to students on campus  

3. urging fellow students to contribute to a charity  

4. urging fellow students to take a specific non-required course  

5. telling fellow students how to study for tests  

6. explaining the meaning of the Fourth of July

Remember, good thesis statements should -- (1) be complete, declarative statements, (2) reflect a clear sense of purpose, (3) adequately summarize and preview the main points of a message, and (4) be focused and original enough to be adequately covered and/or convey anything that’s “news” for the audience.   Hint:  A suggested answer for #1 might read “Elkhead Park offers several fun-filled activities for family vacations, including camping, hiking, fishing, and a deluxe lodge with restaurant and bar.”