Building strong thesis statements is the first step to creating strong essays. They are like maps or GPS systems for outlining the whole essay.

Choose one of the broad topics from the list below. You will write on this topic in the Discussions. This is not the topic, however, for the essay in the Assignments. In other words, we are building two different essays: one in the Discussions, and one in the Assignments.

the impact of immigration on a society

the effects of the Civil Rights Movement in the US

a scientific discovery that changed society

the effects of book banning on society

the downside of mandating uniforms in high school

the effects of technology on society

the influence of art on society

the impact of film on society

the need for environmental activists

the need for people to work in the trades

Refine your chosen topic to something manageable; it is impossible, for example, to write all there is to know about music.

Too broad: Many musicians have had a great influence on history.

Refined: Beethoven’s accomplishments as a musician, his loss of hearing, and his continued influence on today’s music make him one of the finest composers of all time.

Spend a little time researching your refined topic. Go to the APUS Trefry Library or Google Scholar.

Write a thesis statement that includes the refined topic + argument/assertion + 3-point essay map.

Post your thesis statement to this discussion.

Critique the thesis statements of your peers.

Do you see three clear parts?

Do you see the three points of the essay map?

Are any of the points too similar (each point should be a separate idea)?

Do you have questions about the topic?

Did you find any research on the topic (this will benefit your classmate and be good research practice for you :))?