Inquiry Pg 99-119

Summary: This chapter of the book discusses how to form an academic thesis in your academic writing. An academic thesis makes an assertion that is clearly defined, reflects the awareness of the conversation, is at the beginning of the essay, appears in every paragraph and conveys a fresh perspective. To create a thesis you must first create a working thesis. This is your first attempt at an assertion of your position on the topic. There are 3 models to help you develop your working thesis; the correcting-misinterpretations model, filling-the-gap model, and modifying-what-other-have-said model. Aside from defining the purpose of your essay in your thesis, you must also set up the context that the readers will encounter in your paper. To do this you have to establish the topic, summarize what others have been saying about your topic, explain what you see as the problem and finally state your thesis.

Quote #1: "The thesis penetrates every paragraph, holding the paragraphs together, just as a skewer holds the ingredients of a shish kabab together" (Pg 99).

I think this quote is very important when it comes to writing your thesis. Your thesis basically introduces your paper and the stance you are taking on your topic. The readers need to be constantly reminded of this throughout the paper. This will persuade the readers even more to see your point of view. I know personally do not do this which is why I lose my readers a lot at some point in my paper because I tend to write a lot.

Quote #2: "Never accept your working thesis as your final position. Instead continue testing your assertions as you read and write, and modify your working thesis as necessary" (Pg 100).

I always have a problem with this. I write my thesis before even writing my paper and stick with that original thesis. However, I always find myself changing ideas and point of views as I write. But instead of rewriting my thesis I instead throw out those thoughts and continue writing according to my thesis. But in reality my thesis should be according to my writing.

Questions: 
1. Can your working thesis be your final thesis?
2. How long is your thesis supposed to be?
3. Can your thesis be one sentence?