1. Synthesis Essay
Take notes!

2. Introduction Paragraph
There are three main parts:
Hook
Transition
Thesis Statement

3. Hook NO Questions!! Purpose: Options for hooks:
Grab the reader’s attention
Make the reader want to keep reading
Options for hooks:
Quotes from historical or well-known figures
Startling facts (NOT a piece of your evidence!)
Thought-provoking statement about your topic
NO Questions!!
Maintain formal voice: No 1st/2nd person

4. Transition
Purpose:
Guide the reader from the hook to the thesis statement.
Here, you should provide background information about your topic. What is the core of the debate that is happening around your topic?
This would also be a good place to introduce both your argument and the counter.

5. Thesis Purpose: State the position that you will argue in your paper
For this paper, your claim (your position on the prompt question) and your reasons will become your thesis.

6. Body Paragraph (THINK: Precis)
Topic Sentence: Focus your body paragraph & connect to thesis. Clearly state reason/text your paragraph will focus on
Evidence: 2-3 pieces per paragraph
Text: Direct Quote with set up. If citing more than one text per paragraph, include TAG in set-up
Personal: No quotes – describe situation/observation

7. Body Paragraph (THINK: Precis)
Analysis: The MOST important part of your body paragraph!
Explain HOW your evidence (whether textual or personal) proves your topic sentence
NO LESS THAN 2 sentences (But good analysis is more like 3-5, TBH)
Concession/Refutation:
Use textual evidence + analysis to refute counterclaim (prove it wrong – therefore it’s still supporting your claim)

8. Body Paragraph (THINK: Precis)
Concluding Sentences: Wrap up your ideas
Restate topic sentence
Summarize evidence/analysis in a sentence each

9. Conclusion Three main parts: Restate thesis Summary of main points
Call to action/parting thought

10. Restate Thesis Purpose:
Bring the body of your paper back to your thesis statement
MUST be a restatement: DO NOT copy and paste the same sentence from your introduction.

11. Summary of Main Points Purpose:
Briefly show how the body of your paper proved your thesis
Summarize each body paragraph in one sentence.

12. Call to Action Purpose:
Challenge the reader to DO SOMETHING about “it” (your argument)
What is the outcome you want as a result of your claim?
“We” is ok here (but still no “you” please)
Hint: This is not your claim – this is not where you convince, but where you challenge to action.