1. Decide what you think about the topic What do I think about this topic; am I for it or against it?

2. WRITE YOUR HOOK The very beginning of your essay is called the hook because it “hooks” your readers’ attention. The hook should relate to the topic of the essay, but it can take many forms. We have been working on a FUNNEL hook because it is one of the best ways to get to the most important claim you are making; the thesis statement.

3. Next, write your thesis Your thesis should include: A topic + your claim (opinion) + details. Ex: Students should not be forced to wear school uniforms because they like to show off their new clothes, it takes away individuality, and they may find more extreme ways to look different from everyone else.

4. Now you are ready to make an outline from your thesis statement Your supporting details listed in your thesis should be the topic sentences of your body paragraphs

5. Example Outline I.Introductory Paragraph – Funnel to thesis statement II.Show off new clothes III.Takes away individuality IV.More extreme ways to be different V.Counter- claim: the main argument your critics would claim VI.Conclusion paragraph – restate what you said in introductory paragraph

6. Counter-claim For your argument to be valid, you must acknowledge what your critics might say. The counter claim should be stated before your concluding paragraph. For example, in this case, your critic may say that school uniforms helps reduce anxiety for what students wear, helps redirect student learning, and reduces the violation of dress codes.

7. The key is using good transition words Ex: Some may argue that school uniforms reduce stress with what to wear. They also claim that uniforms would redirect student’s focus on learning and not clothes. Additionally, it can be argued that students would be less likely to break dress code rules. Although critics may argue that school uniforms helps reduce anxiety for what students wear, helps to redirect student learning, and reduces the violation of dress codes, these points should be secondary to freedom of self- expression.

8. Add validity to your claim Be sure to use a transition that refutes or helps confirm your claim as MOST valid. Words like Although, however, Nonetheless, On the other hand, and Yet are words of opposition and will make your claim stronger.