Ms. Harding
30 April 2018
Research Paper Outline Template
I. Background information/context:
Example: Survival instincts are inherent in everyone. The pinning question is under what circumstances will humans allow these instincts to override their morals? William Golding explores the theme of savagery versus civilization through motifs like the conch and fire in his 1954 novel Lord of the Flies.
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a. Thesis statement: Statement over topics you will cover.
Example: Golding’s characters in Lord of the Flies, possess recognizable traits of human nature. Piggy represents the intellect and authoritative structure; he also signifies the motif of rationalism.
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II.
Body Paragraph 1:
Character Analysis
: Evaluate the character’s traits, their role in the story, and the conflicts they experience. When analyzing, think critically, pose questions, and draw conclusions about the character using those three guiding topics.
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b. Evidence:
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c. How does evidence tie to the topic/concluding thoughts:
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III.
Body Paragraph 2: Motif and Character Connection: Introduce the motif (does it have a positive or negative connotation – not only as it is seen in the novel, but also in real life). Explain how the motif connects to/shapes your character, and include one or two specific instances in the novel where your character strongly exhibits or connects to the motif. Draw a conclusion about the motif and how it effects the novel overall.
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b. Evidence:
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c. How does evidence tie to the topic/concluding thoughts:
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IV.
Body Paragraph 3:
Outside current event connection: Find one current event that also demonstrates this motif. It does not have to tie back with Count of Monte Cristo—but it does need to strongly tie-in with the motif. Briefly explain the current event. This paragraph should be made up of mostly the connection to the motif, and your discussion. Draw a conclusion about the motif and real life.
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b. Evidence:
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c. Draw a conclusion about the motif and real life.
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V. Conclusion
a. Creatively restate the main points
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b. What is the take away? What did you learn? What can someone else learn from your topic? How can this relate to real life?
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c. Leave the reader with a sense of closure
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