Wilde Lake High School

A Research Paper the Big 6 Method #5

Synthesis – Putting it all together to write your paper

What you need to do:

·        Organize your note cards, eliminate any unnecessary notes

·        Create an outline of your paper using your note cards

·        Analyze the notes

·        Complete the task: project

Your outline and paper could contain the following sections. Rely on directions from your teacher for detailed instructions on how to complete your project.

Introductory Paragraph:

·        Attention grabbing topic ideas

·        A clearly stated thesis – what your essay will prove

·        Supporting information, background information

·        Why it supports your thesis

·        Transition into next evidence

·        State why this evidence supports your thesis

Body of project - Contains several paragraphs:

Each paragraph could contain:

·        A topic sentence – Describes the evidence you will present in this paragraph

·        Quote or evidence from a source

·        Transition – relate the above source to the next

·        Quote or evidence from a source

·        Transition – relate the above source to the next

·        Quote or evidence from a source

·        Transition – relate the above source to the next

·        Concluding sentence or sentences – wraps up your ideas within this paragraph

Conclusion – final paragraph

·        Restate the thesis

·        Summarize your main points, at least one from each paragraph

·        Direct your audience to act or make a change in the world

·        Wrap up your paper with a final thought, leave your audience thinking beyond your paper.