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