Thesis statement — English definition
A sentence, usually in the introduction, that clearly states the writer's claim.
Where it is taught
- Writing a Strong Argument — Argument & Rhetoric, English 9: Experience, Perspective & Inquiry, Grade 9
In use
Analyzing other people's arguments and building your own use the same parts — but writing an argument means assembling them yourself, and it starts with a thesis statement.
Writing a Strong Argument
Questions using thesis statement
Problem 1
Which sentence is the STRONGEST thesis statement?
- Cell phones are a big part of school life.
- This essay will discuss cell phones in schools.
- Schools should allow cell phone use during lunch because it does not disrupt instructional time and helps students manage their schedules.
- Some people like cell phones and some do not.
Answer and explanation
Schools should allow cell phone use during lunch because it does not disrupt instructional time and helps students manage their schedules.
Only this option makes a specific, arguable claim and previews the reasoning behind it.