Problem
An outline is used to organize ideas about a topic into a logical order. Typically, outlines arrange major topics, subtopics, and supporting details. Writers use outlines when writing their papers in order to figure out which claims to cover in what order. This outline discussion asks you to informally outline your Final Research Paper by completing a set of interrelated smaller tasks.
• Write a short introduction that explains your semester topic and what the controversy (or discussion) is regarding your topic. What are the different points of view that are argumentative?
• Develop a working thesis. What point do you want to make about your semester topic? What is your position after completing the research this semester?
• Decide on at least THREE supporting points. These should connect to your thesis, support it, and develop the discussion about it. Number these points and arrange them in a logical order.
• For which of the supporting points do you plan to include a naysayer (counterargument)? What is a that naysayer? Will you refute the naysayer, or will you make a concession?
• For each point above (including the naysayer) develop and list several supporting details. These details should include source material from the research articles you've covered in the annotated bibliography (studies, statistics, other evidence), as well as--to a limited degree--personal experience.
• Write a short conclusion explaining the significance of your argument and why it matters to both a small group of affected individuals, as well as to society at large.
• Don't forget to begin drafting a good title for the paper! Here's some quick advice. Use a catchy phrase in the first part of the title, followed by a descriptive phrase. Examples:
"My Brain Made Me Do It: An Analysis of Appetite as an Effect of Neurological Priming"
"Boys' Toys, Girls' Toys: How Early Play Experiences Impact Gender Development"