Assignment 2.1 Thesis Statements
Choose one of the following activities to complete for this assignment.
2.1a – Thesis Statements Mad Libs
Using Mad Libs is an interesting and fun way to learn the essential components of sentence structure for kids. However, we can also use them to learn and understand the essential components of thesis statements: a subject, a claim, and reasons for that claim.
By providing the missing parts of the sentence, try to create the most outlandish or funny thesis statement possible. Create the most ridiculous, hilarious, or wildly imaginative thesis statement using the format:
Because of [reason 1], [reason 2], and [reason 3], [subject] is/are [claim].
Mad Lib Thesis Statement Examples:
· Because of an ancient prophecy, the suspicious disappearance of all left socks, and the rise of squirrel espionage, Earth’s squirrels are preparing for intergalactic diplomacy.
· Because of enchanted ramen noodles, the strange silence of pigeons, and a spell written on a bathroom stall, campus libraries are portals to alternate dimensions.
The unpredictable and silly combinations help you internalize the essential components of a thesis (subject, claim, and reasons) in a low-pressure way.
Now think about how that can be translated into a serious thesis statement that provides your reader with vital information about the direction of your essay. A strong thesis is like a roadmap. It gives direction, has a clear point, and offers insight into the essay’s message or theme. It is a summary of the main points you plan to write about and communicates the significance of your topic. The reason for writing your essay is to prove your thesis statement to your audience.
Real Thesis Example:
· Because of the energy production required to charge the battery, the difficulty in disposing of the battery once its life has expired, and the potential for the battery to leak, electric cars are bad for the environment.
PART B
Thesis Statement Assignment
Thesis statements are like movie, video game, and television series trailers; they give the viewer an insight into the film, video game, or television series and its main points and themes. A strong thesis is like a roadmap. It gives direction, has a clear point, and offers insight about the trailer’s message or theme. Thinking like a trailer editor helps you identify the main argument of a story and summarize it concisely for an audience. Use the trailers in the document below to practice writing strong thesis statements based on visual, thematic, and narrative evidence from the media.
AI Reminder:
Review the English department’s AI policy located in the syllabus and at the top of the Content area of Blackboard.
AI should not be used to write any part of this assignment — I want your own thoughts.
Step 1: Practice Writing Thesis Statements Using Trailers
Create thesis statements for two (2) of the following trailers. In the attached document, use the
Guiding Questions in the document below to assist your viewing and notetaking. You will want to watch each trailer
at least twice to get all the important information you will need to write your thesis statements.
045 Thesis Statement_Trailer_Analysis Assignment Revised.docx
Step 2: Reflection on Your Work
Write a short paragraph (150-200 words)
about your strongest thesis statement. Answer the following questions in your paragraph.
· Which trailer did you watch for this thesis statement? Why did you choose this one?
· Have you seen the film, game, or series before? How did that help or hinder you?
· Why do you feel this is your strongest thesis statement of the 3 you wrote?
· What evidence from the trailer did you use to craft your thesis statement? (visuals, audio, dialogue, etc.) Be specific and clearly explain your reasoning.
· Use the
Developing Thesis Statements Handout section
“How will I know if my thesis statement works?” from the module to help you justify your thesis statement.
Developing a Thesis Statement Handout.docx
Submit BOTH your 3 thesis statements and reflection paragraph in the same MLA-formatted Word document.
