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Thesis Statements and Topic Sentences

Let's start with some definitions.

Thesis Statement : The controlling idea of an essay stated in one sentence, usually the last sentence in the introduction. See below for example.

Division Statement : A phrase which sets out the different parts/arguments/reasons which prove the thesis of your essay (often part of your thesis). Think of it as a road map to the reader so they can see what’s coming. Each of your body paragraphs needs to be accounted for in your division statement. Some handy words to keep in mind to set up your divisions include illustrates, shows, demonstrates, proves, suggests, defines, supports, indicates, means, or reveals.

In the sample thesis statement below, the divisions are italicized.

Voltaire shows that Candide is not a static character through his renunciation of Pangloss’s ideas, the lessons that he learns, and his ability to take action.

Below are topic sentences based on the division statement above. Note how they follow the order established in the division statement:

• Candide’s growth is illustrated by his rejection of Pangloss’s philosophies.
• In addition to rejecting Pangloss’s ideas, the lessons about mankind drummed into him by his adventures show a character capable of change.
• While these lessons are a necessary part of his change, his conversion of this knowledge to action best shows his growth.

Iin each of these topic sentences there is a word or phrase that refers directly back to the division. This kind of repetition is a reader's friend: it guides readers through your thinking so they can concentrate on how well you explain/prove your point. It also helps you (the writer) out by reminding you to make your points concise and to stay focused on individual ideas.

This kind of organization results in essays that prove your point: which is the goal of argumentative writing . . . and should be your goal for this essay.

How To

How To Write a Thesis Statement
Note: You should rephrase the question into a thesis statement (don't repeat question).

Your thesis should contain three things: 1) the subject of your essay; 2) the point or focus; and 3) the divisions/reasons you will use to prove your point.

Try the starter thesis statement below to get you started:
[The] ____________ in ________ is illustrated/demonstrated/shown/indicated by ___________, __________, and _________.

How to Write a Topic Sentence
Your Topic sentence should contain two things: 1) reference to your division, and 2) a reference to your thesis.

For a basic format, try the following starter topic sentence:

Insert statement of evidence illustrates/demonstrates/shows Insert answer to what the paragraph will illustrate/demonstrate about the thesis.

Example topic sentences

1. Exaggeration is another way Voltaire satirizes the idea that we live in the “best of all possible worlds.”
2. Voltaire's embrace of Enlightenment ideals is also expressed by the positive view of the sciences.
3. Human greed is another way the world of Candide connects to our world today. And in both cases, the result is violence.
4. Voltaire uses gallows humor to illustrate the capacity to endure horrors.
5. Another life lesson embedded in the novel lies in the concluding maxim to "cultivate our garden."
6. The many references to actual historic events is another reason the novel is realistic.
7. Rosseau's status as a card carrying Romantic is also shown by Confessions's emphasis on individuality.
   
8. Self-absorption is another way the world of Confessions connects to our world today. And in both cases, the result is hubris.

Have fun.

© 2010 David Bordelon