backwards backwards outlineoutline
after a first draft is after a first draft is complete complete
test the test the structurestructure of of your ideasyour ideas
All essay components should closely connect.
Pick a point and Pick a point and stick to it!stick to it!
backwards outline DIRECTIONS:backwards outline DIRECTIONS:
Copy each main sentence Copy each main sentence exactly as it appears in exactly as it appears in the draft. Afterward, the draft. Afterward, analyze and revise as analyze and revise as needed:needed:• titletitle• thesisthesis• topic sentence from topic sentence from eacheach body body
paragraph (#1, #2, #3, #4, etc.)paragraph (#1, #2, #3, #4, etc.)
underline underline oror
create a separate documentcreate a separate document
FRAMEWORKFRAMEWORK
title title thesis thesis
topic sentencestopic sentences
TITLETITLE
should not simply state topic
should connect to thesis and match the hook
any metaphors and creative phrases used in the title should be explained inside the essay
remember to capitalize all main words
THESISTHESIS
Most important sentence or two in essay. Clearly state your opinion about the topic. Make your argument .
Not a good place for pronouns; use nouns and proper nouns instead.
As college students, for most essays find a place in your introduction for this component, unless otherwise directed.
In most cases, students should avoid asking a thesis question, unless specifically assigned.
TOPIC TOPIC SENTENCESSENTENCES
Set a paragraph’s point at the top. Keep your thesis alive. Must contain some analysis. Argue your point in every paragraph.
Not a good place for pronouns; use nouns and proper nouns instead.
Under review, topic sentences may need adjustment in order to maintain strong essay structure.
Stick closely to your original concept or realize that your main idea may be changing and developing as you write.
Don’t be afraid to change topic sentences, change thesis, or change both in order to improve your work.
rememberremember
“cut,” “copy” “cut,” “copy” andand “paste" “paste"
are aare a writer’s writer’s best friends!best friends!Don’t be afraid to move ideas and/or support to better construct your thoughts.
Think of your readers. Handle their reading experience with care.Think of your readers. Handle their reading experience with care.
learn tolearn to
connect connect or cutor cut
OUTER OUTER SHELLSHELL
hook hook detailed support detailed support
conclusion conclusion
hookhookshow your
thesis
launch your argument
grab and keep the reader’s attention
detailed detailed supportsupport
connect to topic sentence connect to topic sentence
connect to thesisconnect to thesis
connect to titleconnect to title
conclusionconclusion
DON’T DON’T simply repeat your thesis, topic sentences or support.
PLANPLAN ahead! Save something special for a strong close.
GIVEGIVE readers a reason to read through the end of your essay.
practice practice dynamic dynamic outlininoutlinin
ggoutline before, during outline before, during
and after draftingand after drafting
remember:remember: intro = hook + thesis intro = hook + thesis
onlyonly
Learn to distinguish the main idea from supporting points.
Move competing ideas into body paragraphs; try using them as topic sentences.
In prewriting, writers often find their thesis surrounded by topic sentences. When initially recording thoughts, the brain delivers main ideas first. The writer’s job is to sort, organize and build a composition out of these puzzle pieces.
REVISEREVISE ANDAND SHINE! SHINE!
Gina FournierGina Fournier
Oakland Community CollegeOakland Community College
Fall 2008Fall 2008
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