Essay Outline
Introduction (Paragraph 1)
Hook – Question, Stat, Hypothetical Situation, etc
Topic summary – Paraphrase the prompt
Thesis
Introduce your perspective
Include how the other two contrast your perspective.
Body (Paragraphs 2) – Assertion
Start with a transition/topic sentence that discusses YOUR POSITION on the central issue
Explain your position including any of the given perspectives that support your position
Give an example that supports your position and explain how the example supports your position
End the paragraph by summarizing the paragraph
Refutation (Paragraphs 3)
Concession: Start with a transition/topic sentence that discusses the OPPOSING SIDE of your argument
Discuss the given perspective(s) that would support the opposing argument
Counter: Explain why you disagree with the opposing perspective
Discuss flaws in reasoning
Give a specific example that could be used to support the opposing perspective
Be sure to discuss how the opposing logic doesn’t work when compared to your position.
Conclusion (Paragraph 4)
Recap your discussion
Restate your perspective and arguments
Provide a final overarching thought on the topic
