Create an outline for a 1,000- to 1,200-word persuasive research essay in which you take a stand on a controversial topic and support your opinion with evidence from sources. Your outline must include the following:
A. : Keep in mind that you may end up changing your opinion as you delve deeper into your research. (This is normal.)
B. : Although your descriptions do not have to be complete sentences, the phrases you write in the outline should give your instructor enough information to understand your reasoning. Above all, be consistent in your presentation of information.
C. : Find two or more sources that support one reason, or one source that supports two or more reasons. (Either way, you should end up with five sources.)
Use the tips from this lesson to ensure that your sources are credible. Document each source on your works-cited page according to MLA standards so it's clear to your instructor where you found it.
Among your sources should be at least one print source, such as a book or periodical, even if you found it online. For example, if you had consulted a full-text version of Darwin's online, it would count as a print source because it was originally published as a book. One of your sources should also include a chart, table, map, schematic, or other visual presentation of information.
Keep in mind that your plan for going about any research project is always flexible. You might decide to deviate from your outline while you're actually writing the paper, especially if you come up with new reasons or find better evidence to support your reasons.
This writing assignment will focus on the following skills:
Devising a strong claim and supporting reasons
Gathering and organizing the information you already have
Locating and evaluating sources
Connecting source material to specific points in a research outline
Writing Your Outline
1. Write your claim.
2. Write at least one reason supporting your claim. There's space for you to add more as you do research.
3. Write at least two research questions.
4. Brainstorm about where you might begin to research your topic.
5. Write down your evidence and sources.
