thesis statement 主题句---高级英语写作.ppt

The Thesis Statement Definition: “A thesis is an idea, stated as an assertion, that represents a reasoned response to a question at issue and that serves as of a composition” (Gage 70). The central idea How should we write the thesis statement? A thesis statement is a declarative statement. It is not a title, a fragment, or a question.  Example: Question: Why are biofeedback techniques excellent methods of stress reduction? Thesis: Because of its simplicity, accuracy, and lack of toxicity, biofeedback is often a successful technique for migraine relief. A thesis statement is not an announcement of the authors purpose or assignment. Announcement: In this paper I will discuss the causes and effects of the French Revolution and then argue as to whether or not it was successful. Thesis: Though the reasons for the French Revolution were noble— liberty, fraternity, equality—the effects were devastating, ultimately leading to the unsuccessful reinstitution of the monarchy. A thesis statement covers only one topic. Many topics: The theme, characters, setting, irony, conflicts, viewpoint, and plot all contribute to making Madame Bovary a tragedy. One topic: Flauberts Emma Bovary is a tragic character because, never seeing reality, she misses some important clues that her life has gone awry, and she falls from her social height into prostitution. A thesis statement focuses the essay and guides its direction. Unfocused: Martin Luther King, Jr. is a role model for everyone to follow. Focused: Because of his determination, his courage to follow his beliefs and his unwavering sense of justice, Martin Luther King, Jr. is a symbol of American freedom. Your thesis needs three components: (TAD) Topic: The narrowed, limited subject of your paper. Attitude: How you will treat and interpret the subject. Development: The proof/points you will cover in the paper. If you were writing a paper to convince your par