Outline for Definition Essay
Use sample outline below. Notice you will have 6 paragraphs.
Paragraph: Introduction
Paragraphs 2, 3, and 4: Subtopics
Paragraph 5: Present your Match argument
- Introduce your contested case and say how it compels you to define your term
- Show why your topic is controversial
- Provide background information needed to provide foundation for your claim
- State your claim in your enthymeme (be sure to have three subtopics/criteria)
Paragraphs 2, 3, and 4: Subtopics
- State and develop subtopic 1 (Paragraph 1) - focus on defining your term
- State and develop subtopic 2 (Paragraph 2) - focus on defining your term
- State and develop subtopic 3 (Paragraph 3) - focus on defining your term
Paragraph 5: Present your Match argument
- Restate your claim for clarity
- Anticipate and respond to possible objections
- Sum up your argument
- Help reader see what's at stake in the Big Picture of your topic
- End with something memorable