Read the sample student thesis statement from a rhetorical essay. Bassett’s argument that community service does little to teach students about their obligations as citizens is ultimately not very persuasive. What makes this thesis statement weak? It does not make a judgment about the success of the writer’s strategies. It does not explain what the rhetorical analysis will show. It does not state whether you personally agree with the writer’s argument. It does not include either inductive or deductive reasoning.