-Make both the subject of your argument and your position on the subject clear
-Include relevant background information to put your topic in context for your readers
-Define any important or key terms here. Do not assume that your reader defines terms the same way you do.
-Provide a review of the literature on your topic. Discuss what academic sources are currently saying about your topic (see the lecture in the learning module regarding literature reviews).
-You may briefly explain why the issue is controversial and significant.
-Your introduction will be several paragraphs long for a detailed paper such as this.
Thesis: Your thesis sentence needs to be the last sentence in your introduction. The thesis statement must state your claim and the points you will use to develop the claim.
Underline the thesis so that I can find it easily.
Writing the Body:
-Explain the nature of the issue. You may summarize various viewpoints to indicate that you understand the ideas of others and have researched the topic thoroughly. You could also include any personal experience that is relevant.
-Consider your tone. What is the best tone to take in order to persuade your audience to at least consider your ideas? Avoid a dogmatic, preachy, or whiny tone. Strive for an objective academic tone. An objective tone will establish common ground between you and your intended readers.
In addition, consider opposing points of view and explain why your argument is valid in light of opposing ideas.
