1. INTROS  Hook me in with something interesting – a quote, a fact, a statistic, an anecdote (little story). Something. Please.  Do NOT start with something ridiculous aka “I’m going to write about Polish culture.” Blech.  Describe a little background of your topic.  End your intro with your THESIS statement.

2. THESIS STATEMENT The sentence that directly states what your paper is about... It ANSWERS the essential question for this paper: What is one aspect of your cultural heritage and how does it influence your life, your choices, and your future? For example:  The Welsh people have a diverse and varied culture, its elements continue to impact my current culture and my family’s traditions in many ways. Be specific enough to answer the questions, But focused enough to make sense.

3. BODY PARAGRAPHS  Each paragraph needs to have a TOPIC SENTENCE.  A sentence that will be the focus of that particular paragraph  The Welsh culture consists of many different food items; some similar to American food, some not so much.  Keep paragraphs focused – paragraphs 2-5 need to be focused on each of the iceberg elements you selected and researched (food, clothing, literature, gender roles, etc.)  Paragraph 6 needs to address how the culture continues (or doesn’t) to influence you, your choices, and your future.  Each body paragraph MUST include a quote or paraphrase with a citation.

4. CONCLUSION  Summative OR “So What?” statement  Summative = How can you sum up your topic? Restate your thesis in a different way.  “So What?” statement = If everything you’ve shared is true, what’s the point? Why does it matter?

5. OUTLINE OVERVIEW 1.Introduction 1.Hook; this could include evidence 2.Thesis (ENDS INTRO) 2.Body #1 – 1 specific element 1.Topic Sentence 2.Evidence – with citation 3.Analysis 3.Body #2 – 1 specific element 1.Topic Sentence 2.Evidence – with citation 3.Analysis 4.Body #3 – 1 specific element 1.Topic Sentence 2.Evidence – with citation 3.Analysis 5.Body #4 – 1 specific element 1.Topic Sentence 2.Evidence – with citation 3.Analysis 6.Connection to YOUR current life 1.How does this culture impact you? 7.Conclusion 1.The so-what? 2.Summarize main topics 3.Re-state thesis