Thesis Checklist:

• Does your thesis comprise the main idea of your paper?
• Is your thesis statement one sentence?
• Is it clear what your position is on the topic?
• Does it appear early on in the paper?
• Does it summarize everything in your paper?
• Is it based on evidence (sources)?

Think Like A Lawyer:

Sure, there's a temptation to write a paper that simply summarizes our topic.  However, in ENGL classes, we don't usually try to write summary papers.  Instead, we'll want to use the model of courtroom argument.  A lawyer in a courtroom argues for something by presenting exhibits (evidence) to a jury that support their points.  Likewise, as a college writer, you'll want to write a paper by presenting evidence that supports your argument.  Imagine yourself in a courtroom trying to convince a jury to believe your point of view!