English 1302

Outline sample

Introduction (½-1 page)

1. Attention Getter (write this out) – could be a startling statistic/fact, an anecdote, quote, rhetorical question

2. Transition to thesis which explains connection between grabber and main ideas

3. Thesis statement-focus on emphasizing the solution to the problem in your thesis

Section 1 – Problem (1-2 pages)

1. Topic Sentence – Define problem (write out)

1. Describe

2. Examples

3. Who affected

2. Topic Sentence – Causes/history of the problem (write out)

1. Where/how it originated

2. Causes

3. Topic Sentence – Seriousness/Consequences (write out)

1. Negative effects

2. How serious

3. Consequences

Transition sentence to lead into the solution.

Section 2 – Solution (2-3 pages)

1. Topic Sentence – Solution     

1. Overview of solution                                                             

2. Research to support                                                                                                 

2. Topic Sentence – Implementation     

1. Process of implementation                                                                           

2. Possible problems-opposition                                                       

3. Drawbacks                                                     

3. Topic Sentence – Outcomes  

1. Benefits                                                          

2. Compare to other solutions                                                    

3. Explicitly explore how it solves the problem                                                 

Conclusion (1/2-1 page)

1. Summary statement (write out)

2. Relate to the world today or future (write out)

3. Call to action/final thought (write out)