Here are a few thesis statements that were drafted by our students. These may evolve as students work on their projects: the subtopics may change, the assertion (which is in bold here) can be revised to be stronger, students may add interesting hooks to get their reader’s attention.
Remember that the introduction to the PLP can be several paragraphs and may describe a personal journey of discovery. The thesis statement goes at the end of that introduction and begins the more formal part of the paper.
2011 PLP Thesis Statements
The American bullfrog is a very interesting animal that is fun to study and also makes a wonderful pet. My PLP will include information about its life (growth, habitat, prey, predators, and reproduction), how the bullfrog evolved, the difference between the American bullfrog and the African Bullfrog, and information about keeping bullfrogs as pets.
Morgan R
Billiards is very fun, and has a lot to do with geometry. Let us jump into the car and drive to the pool hall down the street, where we’ll talk a little about the history of Billiards and then play a couple of games of Eight Ball, Nine Ball, and Snooker where we can discuss the geometry of Billard strategy.
Casey I
There will never be anyone who will rock as hard as the mighty Led Zeppelin, the great, influential band that changed music. I will explain how the band formed, what they’re doing now, explore the history of the band through a timeline, and discuss their songs and albums.
Henry L
In this PLP you will learn about microbiology: about cells, genes, cell kingdoms, how the cells work, bacteria, and what RNA /DNA is. You will agree that cells do a lot of work for us and deserve our respect.
Allan A
The Alamo holds an important place in Texas history. In this report I will be talking about the Alamo itself, the people in the battle, and the events that took place during the battle. You will discover this import piece of Texas and American history.
Mila M
I will be your tour guide as we explore the Colorado River, learn about the different animal species that live in the Grand Canyon, and the plants that grow there. During our trip through the Grand Canyon you will see that it is one of the most amazing places you would want to see before you die.
Mailani A
Come with me on a ‘stache tastic journey as I cover the history of mustaches, the different kinds of mustaches, famous people who wear mustaches, and the mustache and describe beard championships. You will see that mustaches are a unique demonstration of individuality and personality.
–Bella B
In my PLP I’m going to talk about the piano: its history, when the piano was invented, I’ll describe many types of pianos, and how the piano is made, and I will also discuss Beethoven who was inspired by the piano. You’ll agree that the piano is a wonderful instrument, and I hope you will be inspired to play it yourself.
Jimbo K
I’ll recreate the history of the guitar, the bass, the keyboard instruments and the drums; explain the roles of the instruments in the band, and tell how they work. I also intend to help you to understand the language of music a little better. After we’ve taken this musical journey through time you will see that music is not only about the entertaining musicians, but also about the instruments they play.
Parker C
In this PLP I will be talking about positive training, correction based training, basic dog training, and the reason why you should use positive training on your dog. By the end of this PLP, you will see that training your pup is easier than you think and fun for the both of you.
Luna S
Eric Idle isn’t just another guy on the street, he was and still is an American idle––literally. Travel with me through the amazing and hilarious world of Eric Idle: the mysterious land of his childhood; the interesting path of his education; the weird and one and only Monty Python’s Flying Circus; and the sad world of Great Brittain during and after the war and how it affected Eric Idle.
Willow C
Come with me on an adventure to Africa to learn about a hippo’s everyday activities, a hippo’s diet, their habitat, how long hippos live, and interesting facts about hippos. You will discover that hippos are truly awesome animals.
Mia A
I will tell you about the history of Milton Hershey, the history of HERSHEY company, the town of HERSHEY in Pennsylvania, and about the company today. After reading this plp you will agree that Milton Hershey is one of the best chocolate makers ever!
Evan D
Come with m while we go back in time to ancient Egypt to learn about mummies, pyramids, the Egyptians’ daily life, and their gods and goddesses. By the end of our trip you will agree with me that the Egyptians were truly amazing people.
Sophia L
Pearl Harbor was the worst attack in US history. Come back through time with me to explore Pearl Harbor, the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the U.S.S. Arizona and the memorial. I will examine the timeline of December 7th 1941 and of course I will explain why Japan tried to take some of our land.
Dennis
Please come with me to the Greek times of the gods while I explain the family tree of the gods, and go in depth about the four great Greek nature gods DIONYSUS, DEMETER, PHERSEPHONE and PAN You will see how these gods brought peace and were a calming influence on the Greek family tree.
WYATT C.
Tornadoes are destructive natural disasters that cannot be prevented; however, if we educate ourselves in tornado behavior and safety we have the potential to save lives. In my paper I will be teaching you about how tornadoes form, their patterns and strengths, the latest research on tornado safety and strategies.
Daniel C.
By the end of my PLP, you will agree that Dr. Seuss is cool and that his art is a lot different than any other art. In my plp I will discuss where he lived, his life, and explore what made him write those silly stories.
Elias M.
Today, I will take you to the game of basketball while telling you about MJ’s high school years, how his playing improved in college, his career in the NBA and the sponsors, his retirement life, and also about some of Mike’s greatest basketball moments. After this report you will agree that MJ is the greatest basketball player ever.
Jarret I.
I will tell you about different types of bananas and what they actually are, about the nutritional content, how to grow bananas, and how bananas are used in a variety of foods we like eat. So let go bananas for bananas! You will discover that bananas are one of the most healthful foods you can eat.
Isaiah C.
I will be telling you about veganism: the clothes you use, the food you eat, the food you don’t eat, how to make good vegan food, and the history of veganism. You will see that being a vegan can make a difference in the world.
Tuesday M.
Come with me and learn about South Carolina: the land, growth and change with the colonist, first people to settle there, the government, and South Carolina in modern times. When we’re done with our trip you will know that South Carolina is a beautiful, wonderful historic state.
Savannah
Let’s dive deep into the ocean and learn about submarines. I will discuss how submarines are made, the tip of propulsion, how submarines are used, and some interesting fact about submarines. At the end of my plp I hope you will agree that submarines are amazing machines and useful in many ways.
Reef
I will talk about the gecko’s habitat, diet, behavior, history, and interesting facts. By the end of my P.L.P you will realize that geckos are amazing and unique animals can be so many colors, shapes, sizes and live from misty rain forest to dusty deserts.
Natalie V.
Together we will take a colorful journey learning about different types of dog paintings. They include: The Early Dog, The Mythical Dog, The Portrait Dog, The Hunting Dog, and The Loving Dog. Each of the dogs in art is an amazing work in itself, and we will learn that just by adding a dog, an artist can make a painting come alive and tell a story.
Teah P.
Harriet Tubman, a kind slave who helped other slaves to freedom, was one of the bravest women in American history. This paper will discuss what Harriet Tubman did to help other slaves, the Underground Railroad, the North Star, the conductor, and also discuss what freedom meant to the slaves.
Celeste E.
This PLP explains his childhood, when he was at West Point, World War I, the years from 1919-1940, and World War II. You will see why General George Smith Patton Jr. was the greatest US general of all time.
Maxwell H.
We will jump back in time to learn about The White House and the children who grew up there: the Adams family, the Lincoln family, the Kennedy family, and the Obamas. The White house has played a big role presidential history, and has been a home to many families.
Sabina H.
Mad has been Americas best comic magazine for many years. This essay will cover Alfred E. Nueman, Max Gaines, Mad, Max Gaines before mad, and the family of Mad.
Alfredo G.
Let’s dive into a river and meet the amazing platypus where we will be discussing what is a platypus, the platypus habitat; its diet, how it lives on the land, and how it reproduces. You’ll discover that the platypus is one of the earth’s most amazing mammals.
Catie K.
Let’s hop in to discover the truth about the endangered red-eyed tree frog: the life cycle of the red-eyed tree frog, what they eat, about the habitat they live in, and what their prey is. You will see what wonderous creatures they are and understand how it is up to us to help them keep from croaking off the face of the planet.
Sara C.
Let’s go into the beautiful world of the rain forest to learn about the colorful birds called parrots. I will talk about their habitat, what they eat, how they communicate, and some interesting facts. At the end of my plp I hope you will see how parrots are cool animals.
Stephanie P.
Come and swim with me to study the wonderful lives of Mallard ducks. Let’s learn about where Mallards ducks live, what they eat, their life cycle, and some interesting facts. At the end of my PLP I’m sure you will agree with me that mallard ducks are amazing, fun, and beautiful animals.
Kendall R.
Otters are more than cute, cuddly animals, and they deserve our protection to bring back their population. I will be talking about sea otters, river otters, the differences between sea otters and river otters, their habitats, their life cycle, and how they are endangered by humans.
Kate L.
Let’s fly to the Arctic to learn about where Arctic foxes live, what they eat, what Arctic foxes do, and find out why their fur changes color. In the end you will agree that Arctic foxes are one of the most interesting animals in the Arctic.
Clare K.
Let’s go for a ride, stick your head out the window and learn about our four-legged furry friends…dogs. I will be discussing what dogs eat, pros and cons about dogs. In the end after you read my paper you will agree that dogs are very exciting and interesting companions.
Eden P.
In this paper you will discover, what Christa McAuliffe’s life was like before the explosion, the TISP (Teachers In Space Program), getting ready for the launch, the unexpected explosion, and what we all do to remember Christa McAuliffe. By the end of this paper you will believe that Christa McAuliffe––a mother, wife and daughter–– had a wonderful life while it lasted.
Alexa L.
Let’s slither around the world and learn about snakes, snake habitats, what snakes eat, how you tell if a snake is poisonous, what to do if you get bit, why snakes hiss, and some other fun facts about snakes. You may think snakes are slithery slimy and scary reptiles but you’ll see that they are actually very unique, amazing, and special animals.
Eli V.
Let’s follow Mark Zukerberg’s journey in developing Facebook: we will discuss his childhood, creations during his college years, Facebook today, and his philanthropy. In all, Facebook is a big part of the American pop social network and it helps people each day all over the world to communicate, quicker, faster and safer.
Edgar A.
Roller derby is truly one of the most brutal, exciting sports on skates. Let’s get skating and learn about the history of roller derby, the hall of fame, and about famous derby people. I’ll also discuss safety equipment, roller skates, rules of the game and penalties, roller rinks, and describe a couple common injuries in the sport.
Sophia F.
Let’s go under water and learn about pet turtles: what to expect as their normal behavior, how to take care of turtles, how to set up an aquarium, what to feed your pet turtle, and how to tell if your turtle is healthy. In the end you’ll think pet turtles are fun.
Zowie B.
No matter what someone looks like, or what he or she believes, everyone is entitled to their rights. In this research paper you will learn about different Human Rights Movements in history and about the people they affected. Some of the movements you will learn about today are Gay Rights, The Civil Rights Movement, The Montgomery Bus Boycott, and The Fight for Women’s Vote.
Sophia J.
In my PLP I’ll talk about the history of NASA, the development of the Kennedy Space Center, what an astronaut has to wear in space, and the Hubble telescope. At the end of my PLP I hope you’ll agree that NASA should still be involved in space exploration!
Charlotte U.
Let’s go explore Africa and meet the kings––the lions. I’m going to be talking about their diet, their habitat, what they hunt, and what hunts them. You will agree with me that lions are amazing creatures!
Ariana H.
Come hop into the world of amazing bunnies, and I will teach you about what bunnies can be friends with, what they eat and breeding. Once you hear what I have to say, you will agree that bunnies are very interesting animals that can be friends with a lot of different animals of different species!
Sylvie S.
If that wasn’t enough, below are some more Thesis Statements. Can you find the assertion?
I will be talking about the history of Massive Multiplayer Online (MMO), games their popularity, helpful applications, and safety. At the end of my paper you will agree that MMO games are very important. –Jre
Schnauzers are great pets. You will learn about the history of Schnauzers, about some of their health problems, their personality, the American Kennel Club, and why Schnauzers.- Scotty
In my PLP I will discuss the origin of swords, describe the different characteristics of swords and how they are used in fighting, and highlight some famous swords. By the end of my paper, you will agree with me that swords are the greatest non-mechanical weapon ever invented.- JonLuke
Anime is a brilliant art appreciated all over the world. In this plp you will learn about the history of Japanese anime, anime terminology, character designs, and some of the world’s most famous anime artists.-Sierra R
Yorkies are fun-loving dogs, that are great for kids. I will descibe what Yorkies look like and their particular characteristics, the history of the breed, how to take care of Yorkies, and give you pointers for choosing a Yorkie when you want to adopt one.-Ahmeh
Beluga Whales are one of the most intelligent mammals in the artic sea. In my plp we will dive into the artic sea to learn about beluga whale habitats and how they are being threatened, the diet of the beluga whale, how beluga whales reproduce, and some fun facts. –Giselle
Blue whales are magnificent creatures that deserve our protection. Let’s take a swim to explore the lives of these amazing mammals. I will describe the blue whale anatomy, how they reproduce, hunting practices, and how people can see blue whales in the wild.–Mailaini
Let’s go back in time to learn about the Roman Empire. We will discuss ancient Roman life, the empire/senate, ancient Roman sports, the Roman gods, and their architectural designs. After my report I hope that you will think that the Romans are a fabulous civilization that had ideas we still use today.- Christian
In my paper we will examine the cold war and what it was, learn about Sputnik 1, Sputnik 2, and finally Sputnik 3. You will agree that Lika’s launching date and death was the most heroic day in dog history.- Andoni
My research paper will describe how pennies are made, examine some interesting sayings and designs, and explore the history of pennies in our monetary system. Let’s make some change and you’ll see that pennies are very interesting. -Wyatt
Come explore this watery world where we will discover the Great White Shark and learn about its anatomy, its habitat, how it has survived and evolved these millions of years. You will see that Great White Sharks are interesting and efficient killers who do an important job.-Julien G.
Let’s dive down to meet up with the giant squid and learn about this amazing creature: its anatomy and what it looks like, where its name came from, its diet, and habitat. You will discover that giant squid are fascinating, mysterious creatures. –Danielle R.
Carlsbad Caverns is an amazingly beautiful national park. Come take a hike with me to explore the caves and their history, learn about the bats that live there, examine some of the famous formations, and find out about visiting the cavers today. –Sophia L.
Let’s take a flight to New York to learn about the history of New York City, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Center, and Broadway. By the end of our travel you will see that New York City– “the Big Apple” is indeed one of the greatest cities in the world. Elaine
Spend some time with me and you will know the history of the bull terrier breed, some characteristics of the breed and life span, and some information about breeding bull terriers. By the end of my PLP you will agree that bull terriers are one of the coolest, most amazing and wonderful dogs. -Celeste
In my PLP we will take a speedy trip to examine cheetah characteristics, their habitat, diet, and learn some interesting facts. You will agree with me that Cheetahs are truly beautiful and magnificent animals. -Zoe
Frogs are one of the most awesome amphibians in the world. Jump with me into the world of frogs where we will explore what is an amphibian, what is a frog, learns some awesome facts about frogs, and also learn how to tell if a frog is poisionous. Dennis
Black holes are one of the weirdest and most destructive phenomenon in the entire universe. In my plp you will learn about what a black hole is, event horizons, singularity, worm holes, spaghettification, and super novas.-David M.
Pizza has a very interesting and fascinating history and demonstrates how far around the world one recipe can go. In my plp I will examine the origins of pizza,, compare modern day toppings, describe some fun facts about pizza and show you how to make a killer pizza yourself.-Lucas
In my plp you will learn all about sugar gliders: their habitat, their diet, the origins of the species, and some interesting facts. You will see as I have that sugar gliders are a handful of cuteness. Calixta M.
Sacagewea is an important figure to study because without her Lewis and Clark might not have been able to map the country. Take a journey with me back in time to learn: who Sacagewea was and what skills she had; about her child, Nova; about her time with Lewis and Clark; and what happened to her after Lewis and Clark’s expedition. – Carpenter, Daniel
Holland Lops are not just simple ordinary rabbits. Holland Lops are amazing extraordinary animals that make good pets. In this plp I will explain the origin of Holland Lops, describe their special features, their diet, how to care for them, and give information as to how someone can become a Holland Lop owner.-Willow
Alcatraz was not any prison, it was one of the worst prisons in US history. In my plp I will discuss the history of Alcatraz, a famous inmate–Al Capone, escape attempts, and some fun facts about Alcatraz.—Alexa L.
In my PLP I will discuss the Platypuses physical features, habitat, diet, and their unusual way of reproduction. You will agree that Platypuses are very interesting mammals.- Morgan K
Disneyland is a fascinating theme park that families can enjoy. I will examine why Disneyland is considered the happiest place on earth by sharing it’s history, describe it’s rides and attraction, hotels, restaurants, and stores.
-Isabella B
Converse have a long history because they are good shoes and offer many styles to choose from. In my PLP I will help you learn about the history of Converse, Chuck Taylor the creator of Converse, discuss the early styles of Converse, and the style of Converse today.
Katie H
A career in Veterinarian Medicine can be interesting and rewarding. In my plp I will explore the history of Veterinarian Medicine, interview a working vet, explore veterinary specialties and tools, and discuss my behind the scenes visit to the Wild Animal Park.
Teah P
In this paper we will explore the history of entymology, how eating insects can taste good, and how eating insects can be good for the environment. You too will agree that insects are a very good source of food for us.
Lucus M
In my plp I will examine Walt Disney’s biography, his animation, and his famous theme parks. You will see that Walt Disney was a great innovator and animator.
Elaine W
Come ride along with me and explore the history of skateboarding, find out how much a professional gets paid, and how and why people should use skateboards. You’ll agree with me that skateboarding is a green form of transportation that is good for your health and good for the earth.
Martin M
In my paper I will discuss hamster bodies, what hamsters eat, how hamsters grow and learn, different types of hamsters, hamster survival, and hamsters at play. You will see that Hamsters are lovable and very interesting pets.
Gianna
In my plp I will describe facts about Lake Tahoe, Bodie Ghost Town of Mono Lake, Emerald Bay, Brine Shrimp, alchoholic flies, and tufa towers. You will see that Lake Tahoe and Mono Lake are great places that should be reserved for future generations.
Sophia F
My plp will include information on where bats live, the different species of bats in the world, and what bats eat. You will see that bats are misunderstood animals, but are very helpful to humans.
Sophia J
Rattlesnakes are good hunters because they have an advantage over their prey. In my plp I will describe the rattkesnake’s habitat, the origins of the species and their life cycle, how to recognize a rattlesnake, and how the rattlesnake delivers its venom.
Monica V
Throughout my PLP I will discuss the history of Dr. Seuss, his private unpublished works of art, his love of sculpting, and how he integrates his political vies into his art. After reading my paper you will learn that Theodor Seuss Geisel’s artistic expertise reaches far beyond just a children’s book author.
Jaeden M
Primates are very fascinating creatures that we can learn a lot from. I am going to describe what primates are and tell you about some of my favorite primates, where primates live, what they eat, and how primate behave.
Julien G
Many animals find it useful to sleep in the day and hunt at night. If that’s what they do, that’s called “nocturnal”. In my report I will introduce some nocturnal animals, explain how they do things in the night, and explore why they do it that way.
Jimmy K
The Lochness Monster is the great mystery of Scotland. In this report I will tell you about Lochness in Scotland, describe what the mystery is, explore the hoax and the evidence, and the ongoing search.
Isabelle L
Swim along with me as I describe different species of dolphins, what dolphins eat, how they communicate, and some fascinating facts about dolphins. You’ll agree with me that dolphins are very interesting animals and worth our attention.
Jalen W
If you think natural disasters are cool, you shouldn’t because you are in one you would probably die. The three natural disasters that I am going to describe are: the tsunami, volcano eruptions, and the earthquake.
Jarret I
In my PLP I will describe the history of chocolate, the history of m&ms, m&m colors, how they make m&ms, and discuss what happens to melted m&ms. You will see how m&ms have a very interesting history.
Mariano A
