Question

Which sentences would be effective thesis statements for a paragraph evaluating an argument? Select TWO options.

1. Hollembeak's review of the high school's play is fun and entertaining to read.
2. McArdle reviews the latest production of Hamlet, which sets the play's action in the 21st century.
3. In her editorial, Mellie writes convincingly of the need for high school classes to begin later in the morning.
4. Smith's argument in favor of tuition-free college education offers persuasive reasoning and authoritative evidence.
5. After the flooding in her state, the junior senator offered a heartfelt plan for increasing restrictions on carbon emissions.

Answer 1

Sentences 3 and 4 function as effective thesis statements because they clearly state and evaluate the arguments presented, offering a basis for analytical discussion within an essay.

Step-by-step explanation:

An effective thesis statement for a paragraph evaluating an argument should establish the writer's position on the topic, explain the rationale behind this position, and provide a hint of the evidence to be discussed. Looking at the sentences provided, the options that serve as effective thesis statements are 3 and 4. Sentence 3 says Mellie writes convincingly of the need for high school classes to begin later in the morning, which makes a judgment about the persuasiveness of Mellie's argument. Similarly, Sentence 4 states Smith's argument in favor of tuition-free college education offers persuasive reasoning and authoritative evidence, which gives an evaluation of the argument's effectiveness.

To create a strong thesis statement, one must contextualize the evidence and show how it supports the thesis. Providing a transition to the next paragraph helps maintain the essay's organization, and the conclusion should restate the thesis using new words, summarize the main arguments, and explain the significance of the analysis. Quality organization and logical development of paragraphs that support the thesis statement are essential for a strong analysis of any literary work.

Answer 2

The correct answers are option 1 and 4. In a thesis statement, the author is supposed to express his/her opinion and give a general view of the reasons behind it. The author will later develop these reasons in the body paragraphs. These two choices fulfill with such requirements. In the first one, the author supports the view that the review is fun, that is one reason, and entertaining, another reason. As to the 4° option, it is argued that the argument is valid becuase of persuasive reasoning, one reason, and authoritative evidence.