Research Essay Components for a Passing Essay

Synthesis of sources
o 4-5 of the arguing paragraphs
o Tie sources together and with argument
Arguable thesis
o Supporting points
Counterargument
Rebuttal
Good topic sentences and supporting paragraphs
o Thesis of the paragraph to explain what the focus of the
paragraph is
o Sources in paragraphs
o Transitions
o Tying argument back to thesis
Credible sources
Minimum of 8 sources
Citations in paragraphs
Work cited page
Introduction
Conclusion
Cohesion of the whole essay between paragraphs and the main
argument
Heading and title
8-10 pages in length

Research Essay Guiding Outline

In todays class, you will be working on a Research Outline that will guide/drive/ give direction
to your Researched Essay Draft. I want you to fill in the information below and then submit
this completed outline to me for review and continued approval of your chosen issue. Please
note areas where you have gaps or missing pieces and write how you plan to fill in those areas.
I.

Introduction
a. List one key point from introduction that talks about your topic and draws in the reader
b. List another key point from introduction that talks about your topic and draws in the
reader
c. Write out your arguable/debatable thesis in a full sentence

II.

Supporting Paragraph 1
a. Write out what you have as the possible first (second strongest) supporting point for your
thesis: Also write out what could be the Topic Sentence for this paragraph.
b. List points from source one that supports the argument of the paragraph
c. List points from source two that supports the argument of the paragraph
d. Write out how you see these sources working with each other by agreeing together,
building on each other, or disagreeing with each other. Be specific
e. Write out how you see these sources are supporting your argument for this paragraph and
how that overall supports your thesis

III.

Supporting Paragraph 2
a. Write out what you have as the possible second (weakest) supporting point for your
thesis: Also write out what could be the Topic Sentence for this paragraph.
b. List points from source one that supports the argument of the paragraph
c. List points from source two that supports the argument of the paragraph
d. Write out how you see these sources working with each other by agreeing together,
building on each other, or disagreeing with each other. Be specific
e. Write out how you see these sources are supporting your argument for this paragraph and
how that overall supports your thesis

IV.

Supporting Paragraph 3
a. Write out what you have as the possible third (strongest) supporting point for your thesis:
Also write out what could be the Topic Sentence for this paragraph.
b. List points from source one that supports the argument of the paragraph
c. List points from source two that supports the argument of the paragraph
d. Write out how you see these sources working with each other by agreeing together,
building on each other, or disagreeing with each other. Be specific
e. Write out how you see these sources are supporting your argument for this paragraph and
how that overall supports your thesis

V.

Supporting Paragraph 4 (if you have one)

a. Write out what you have as the possible fourth (strongest) supporting point for your
thesis: Also write out what could be the Topic Sentence for this paragraph.
b. List points from source one that supports the argument of the paragraph

c. List points from source two that supports the argument of the paragraph
d. Write out how you see these sources working with each other by agreeing together,
building on each other, or disagreeing with each other. Be specific
e. Write out how you see these sources are supporting your argument for this paragraph and
how that overall supports your thesis
VI.

Counterargument
a. Write out the strongest counterargument that you are using to oppose your main
argument. Also write out what could be the Topic Sentence for this paragraph.
b. List points from source one that supports the argument of the paragraph
c. List points from source two that supports the argument of the paragraph
d. Write out how you see these sources working with each other by agreeing together or
building on each other. Be specific.
e. Write out how you see these sources are supporting your argument for this paragraph and
how that overall supports your thesis

VII.

Refute to Counterargument
a. Write out what the refute you are using that directly addresses the counterarguments
point without repeating your supporting points. Also write out what could be the Topic
Sentence for this paragraph.
b. List points from source one that supports the argument of the paragraph
c. List points from source two that supports the argument of the paragraph
d. Write out how you see these sources working with each other by agreeing together or
building on each other. Be specific.
e. Write out how you see these sources are supporting your argument for this paragraph and
how that overall supports your thesis

VIII. Conclusion
a. Re-emphasize the importance of the issue and your thesis.
b. What are the consequences of not addressing this issue?
c. Address why this argument/your stance on the issue should be considered.
d. Answer the So What/ question.