1. Choose a Topic that is Near and Dear to Your Heart

Perhaps you know of a policy or law that needs to be changed.You might have a relative who is gay and wants to adopt a child. You might have a relative who did not have a living will and therefore was put on life support that you believe your relative would not have wanted. Maybe there is an immigration procedure that you believe is discriminatory to Latinos alone. Maybe you believe that the cost of textbooks is outrageous.

So, identify a problem and then consider possible solutions to the problem.

2. In your mind, what would it take to solve the problem?

The wise student confers with experts and colleagues to find possible solutions and options. Talk with your professors, your boss, your Congressman, or whomever you believe has credible knowledge to share.

3. Analyze your audience. What does your audience think about your topic and your proposed solution?

If your audience already agrees with you, then mobilize them to help you enact the change that you are advocating. If your audience is neutral or apathetic to your topic, think about ways to show them the relevant and importance of your topic. If your audience disagrees with you, you'll do well to neutralize them to see another perspective.

Do you need more? Here are some specific thesis statements to get you going:

1. Marihuana should be decriminalized.
2. It is wrong to deny gay and lesbian couples the right to adopt children.
3. It is right to deny gay and lesbian couples the right to marry.
4. Giving blood/signing an organ donor card/volunteering is good for you.
5. The U.S. needs a nationalized medicine program.
6. It is more than your right to vote; it is your duty.
7. Rather than arresting gang members, let's influence them to be positive activities in our communities.
8. Title IX needs to be modified in three important ways.
9. There are three things you can do to ensure a secure Social Security System.
10. Sign your living will today.
11. Support regional candidates who favor mass transportation.
12. Support regional candidates who oppose further urban sprawl.
13. College textbooks should be moved from paper to e-ink.
14. Consider purchasing a hybrid car for your next vehicle.

Tips offered by Nan Peck, Associate Professor, Speech Communication,
Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale Campus.