Body Paragraphs

Topic Sentence Supporting Details Supporting Citation Opposition Citation Refutation/Argument Transition Sentence/Closing Sentence

Main Topic + Supporting Topic + Stance Handgun Control + Ease of Purchase + Must be Banned = Topic Sentence Handguns must be banned as they are too easily purchased by criminals. (Only 1 Sentence)

These are the details you are going to use from your research to support your argument. Supporting details set up and lead into your citation. (Usually 3-5 sentences)

For each body paragraph you must supply one citation (quotation) which supports your argument. (Only 1 sentence) These citations must be fully integrated (meaning you introduce the quotation & do not allow it to stand as an independent sentence) & follow the MLA format.

You must acknowledge, in each of your three body paragraphs, the opposition's refuting dissent. You must include in this section one citation the opposition would use to argue against your point. For example… The opposition argues in favor of Second Amendment Rights as detailed in John Smith’s article where he writes, “…. Quote” (Smith 47). (Usually 2-4 sentences)

Following your acknowledgement of the opposition’s stance, you must reassert your argument. Specifically, you should try to discredit the opposition’s stance by providing further support for your thesis. (Usually 2-4 sentences)

At the end of your 1 st & 2 nd body paragraphs, you must use a transition sentence. (Only 1 sentence) A transition sentence subtly introduces the topic to be discussed in the next paragraph. An effective way to transition between paragraphs is to return to your original argument.

Main Topic + Body Paragraph Subtopic + Stance + Reference to Additional Support of Main Topic =Transition Sentence Accidental deaths caused by the use of hand guns is not the only reason these weapons must be banned today.

At the end of your 3 rd body paragraph you should not transition into the conclusion; rather, you should close the paragraph. (Only 1 sentence) A closing sentence is very similar to a clincher sentence (Introduction). This is a summary sentence that serves to subtly pull your argument together. An effective method for writing a closing sentence is to remind your reader of the importance of the stance you have taken in this essay.

Main Topic (Gun Control) Subtopics (ease of purchase, accidents, crime) Stance(Handguns must be banned) + Concluding word(s) +(thus, ultimately)= Clincher Ultimately, because handguns are easily purchased, are responsible for a number of accidental deaths, and are a leading cause of violent crime, the must be banned.