Thesis: For this brief section, give your most narrowed and revelatory
thesis statement. You can, if you wish, give different versions of the
statement.
Support: This will take some time (and invention!) We will dedicate class
sessions to developing ideas. Here, consider all the support strategies
that do not involve outside research—those crucial argumentative moves
such as allusions (to history, pop culture, current events, literature, art,
etc.), examples, scenarios, and personal testimony, in addition to
consulting reputable sources from the internet and our college library.
Counterargument: Explain the most significant opposing points and•
explain your counterargument. How will you address/diffuse/defend
against opposition?
Concession: Finally, what points must you concede or qualify? Explain•
the boundaries and potential shortcomings of your position!
Further Questions and Possible Research: Here’s where you can list•
some important questions and some ideas for doing research. What
would you like to assert? How far can you go? What should you try to find
out?
Remember that the goal of the research is to enrich your own
argument and thinking. Be cautious of depending entirely on outside sources
to develop the essay—and of allowing sources to overtake and eclipse your
own argumentative strategies. Instead, use sources to make your own
points more focused and to: comprehend subtleties in the topic, show
opposition to your ideas, reinforce your position, or develop an analogy or
allusion. Also, consider the following hints and reminders:
Use in-text citation for any summary, paraphrase, or quotation of outside•
sources. Be certain to attribute all ideas taken from sources using MLA
documentation
Create a MLA Works Cited page at the end of your essay.•