Name _______________________________________ Date _________________
Identifying and Creating a Good Thesis Statement
Worksheet B
What is a Thesis Statement?
A thesis is a controlling idea about a topic that the writer is attempting to prove
Why do I have to write a thesis statement?
to test your ideas by narrowing them into a sentence or two
to better organize and develop your argument
to provide your reader with a “guide” to your argument
How do I write a good thesis statement?
Look at the characteristics for thesis statements presented below, and complete the exercise:
1. A strong thesis statement takes a stand on the prompt.
a. There are some negative and positive aspects to industrialization.
b. Because industrialization damaged the environment and exploited workers, its effects
were more negative than positive.
Which thesis is stronger? _______ Explain_________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
2. A strong thesis statement does not simply state a fact, but sets the stage for analysis of a
topic.
a. The Civil War took place between 1861-1865.
b. The Civil War, which took place between 1861-1865, was the most devastating war in
United States history.
Which thesis is stronger? _______ Explain_________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
3. A strong thesis statement is unified, and expresses one main idea.
a. Although some people believe that George Washington was the best president,
Abraham Lincoln was much better.
b. Abraham Lincoln was the best president because he fought to keep the country
together and fought for the elimination of slavery.
Which thesis is stronger? _______ Explain_________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
4. A strong thesis statement is specific.
a. The Crusades were fought because of religion.
b. The Crusades were fought due to religious fanaticism and a struggle for power in the Holy
Land.
Which thesis is stronger? _______ Explain_________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
