A thesis statement should not directly announce your topic by using phrases such as, 'This essay will talk about ... or I am going to tell you ...
Which of the following makes the best thesis statement?

1 I am going to explain why many couples in Russia are choosing to live together rather
than get married.

2 Even though marriage is a strong and respected institution in Russia, more and more
people are choosing to live together before marriage, despite the cultural pressures.

3 Marriage in Russia.

1) "I am going to explain why many couples in Russia are choosing to live together rather  than get married."

Explanation:

1 I am going to explain why many couples in Russia are choosing to live together rather  than get married.

     [] Good! It gives an intro, but doesn't give away the whole essay.

2 Even though marriage is a strong and respected institution in Russia, more and more  people are choosing to live together before marriage, despite the cultural pressures.

     [] Isn't a thesis as it is directly announcing the topic.

3 Marriage in Russia.

     [] Has no background and is missing parts.

Have a nice day!

  I hope this is what you are looking for, but if not - comment! I will edit and update my answer accordingly. (ノ^∇^)

- Heather

what was your story about? i remember this from my language arts class in flvs! i had ms. rosemeyer.