Academic Writing

Academic Writing: Paper Outline

Topic:ABORTION; Pro-choice

Introduction

• Attention grabber (story, shocking statistic or fact, or quote)
• Background on topic and why it is being discussed
• Thesis (must be in form of argument with although and because clause) –see Sheridan-baker thesis machine for assistance. Your because clause should state 3 reasons in favor of your argument.

Body Paragraphs (what are your 3 reasons or claims for your topic and what support do you have that will validate it- facts, statistics, expert opinion, examples)

Claim 1 –Rape victims

Support:

Claim 2 –Socio-economic status

Support:

Claim 3 –Medical reasons

Support:

Counterargument:

• What will the opposition say about your stance?Pro-Life (Conservatives and Religious)
• What support do they have?
• How can you overcome their objections?

Conclusion

• Come back to purpose of the paper
• Why is this topic important?
• What message should be walk away with? (this is where you can offer a story, quote or additional facts/stats to reveal the relevance and importance of your topic and leave a lasting impression)

Whatever your stand with this argument, it will always be your decision.

It’s your body, it’s your choice.