I am writing an oppossing view essay. For this part of the essay we are not supposed to take a stance. The teacher has broken the assignment into 2 parts. The 1st part is actually just to help us learn how to write our final essay. I have pulled alot of research together, just stuck on how to put a thesis statement together. This is usually the part of the essay I struggle with. Once I am able to come up with this I am usually ok. Any ideas?

A thesis statement usually includes factual information plus your position/opinion/stance. Without your position on the topic, it isn't a true thesis statement. So think of this sentence as the angle you want to take on the topic and what you intend to prove by the end of your paper. (If your statement is simply factual, then there's nothing to prove!)

http://leo.stcloudstate.edu/acadwrite/thesistatement.html
This is one of the very best places I've seen online to help students write good thesis statements. It shows you sentences that aren't thesis statements and how to turn each one into real thesis statements.

Once you've drafted your statement, feel free to post it if you'd like someone here to check it.

Thanks, I sure will post it once I come up with it.

Ok, this is what I have so far....

Have you ever taken into consideration that with one action, whether it be mistake or on purpose, you could be sentenced to death? Many of us do not realize how serious and how harsh our legal system could be. Although the death penalty is not always the chosen sentence, it is still a possible sentence. The question is how effective is the death penalty? Is it even effective at all?

When it comes to writing an opposing view essay, it is essential to have a well-crafted thesis statement that accurately represents your stance and effectively introduces the main points of your essay. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create your thesis statement:

1. Identify the topic: Begin by identifying the main topic or issue you are discussing in your essay. Make sure your topic is clear and specific.

2. Understand the opposing view: To write an opposing view essay, you should have a clear understanding of the opposing viewpoint. Research and gather information on the opposing perspective to ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of their arguments.

3. Analyze your research: Once you have gathered enough information on the opposing viewpoint, analyze the key arguments, ideas, and evidence presented in your research. Look for patterns, common themes, or any gaps that you can address in your essay.

4. Determine the purpose of your essay: Decide whether your purpose is to refute the opposing view altogether or to present a balanced argument by acknowledging the opposing viewpoint while still supporting your stance. This will help you shape your thesis statement accordingly.

5. Consider your main arguments: Based on the research you have gathered and your purpose for writing the essay, identify the main arguments or points that will support your stance. These points can either directly oppose the opposing view or counterbalance it with additional evidence.

6. Formulate a thesis statement: Now that you have a clear understanding of the opposing view, your purpose, and your main arguments, you can create your thesis statement. Start by clearly stating your stance on the topic while acknowledging the existence of the opposing viewpoint. Consider using language that conveys your intention to present a balanced argument or to provide a critical analysis of the opposing view.

Here's an example of a thesis statement for an opposing view essay on the topic of climate change:

"While there is considerable evidence supporting the impact of human activities on climate change, it is essential to critically examine the opposing viewpoint that attributes climate change solely to natural fluctuations in the Earth's climate system."

Remember, a thesis statement is a concise summary of your main argument, so make sure it is clear, specific, and encompasses the overall purpose of your essay. Additionally, make sure to revisit and revise your thesis statement as you work through your essay to ensure it accurately reflects the content and direction of your writing.