Research Paper Outline

Directions: Use your research notes, reading, and other discoveries to assist you in developing a detailed outline for your paper. The purpose of an outline is to help you plan your paper from introduction through conclusion. It should include topic sentences for each argument and examples for each point you make. Remember to remain focused. Remember everything you write needs to help prove a conclusion you have reached about your topic. In other words, everything must support your controlling idea or thesis. Format: See template. Voice: This research paper is an argumentative essay (and subsequent outline), which means you must use the thirdperson point of view. Outline Requirements: I. Introduction with thesis: The introduction of your research essay, like any other essay, needs to begin with a broad statement and narrow to your thesis sentence. There are several ways to approach writing an introduction. Some common beginnings: A. B. C. D. a surprising statement or statistic a summary of key points you will make a personal anecdote/narrative that connects to your topic the kinds of ideas that made you interested in this topic in the first place

Once youve found your opener, focus on directing the reader to your thesis. You must provide context (background) for your topic, eventually leading into thesis. Only in your outline should you underline your thesis statement at the end of your introductory paragraph. I. Body of the Essay: This becomes the bulk of your essay. Each point you wish to make will need to be outlined with a letter followed by a topic sentence. The topic sentences should provide your paragraph transitions. Numbered under each topic sentence are 1) context for the example/evidence you will cite, 2) a quote or a paraphrase (evidence from your research notes) to support the point you are arguing (internal documentation follows), and 3) a brief, specific analysis of the evidence which ties it clearly to topic [thesis].

II. Conclusion The purpose of the conclusion of your essay is to bring together your points of argument and restate your thesis (though in different words). Many persuasive essays can be won or lost in the conclusion. Many argue (like your teacher!) the conclusion is the MOST important part of the entire paper. You do not want to bore your audience here. Youre trying to come up with an effective closing statement that will leave a lasting impression in the readers mind. Usually, the conclusion is developed in reverse order from the introduction. You quickly restate the thesis, synthesize your points of argument, and return to a broad (universal) statement. The point is to leave the reader feeling satisfactorily persuaded that you have, indeed, accomplished what you set out to do. Due Date: February 10/11