Sample Thesis Statements

Many writers use models to help them shape and evaluate their work. Here are some sample thesis statements that you can use as models for a paper of between 7 and 10 pages. Compare these statements to the one you are writing:

Examples

Too General   
Bilingual education isn't effective

On Target
Bilingual education should be eliminated because it limits students'success, burdens students unfairly, and isn't cost-effective.


Too Narrow
Bilingual education helps students maintain their native language

On Target
Bilingual education should be continued because it preserves a students' heritage as well as their native language.


Too General
Rainforests are irreplaceable
 

On Target
Rain forests must be preserved because they offer people many resources we cannot replace.

Too General
"The Yellow Wallpaper" is a great short story

On Target
The wallpaper in "The Yellow Wallpaper" symbolizes the narrator's suffocating life.

Too Narrow
"Mothers Against Drunk Driving" is an excellent program

On Target
Some programs designed to eliminate drunk driving have been effective, but far more efforts are needed, especially concerning teenager drunk driving.

Too Narrow
A flat tax helps tax accountants

On Target
A flat tax would benefit the government, business, and consumers.

Too General
The cafeteria isn't very good

On Target
The cafeteria could attract more business if it improved the quality of its food, its appearance, and the attitude of the staff.