1. Outlines
It is only possible to write a good outline when you have a good research question.
David: Does the definition of immigrants in “Beaner” as more than “beaners” help to lead towards immigration reform?
Thesis: “Beaner” suggests that defining immigrants as more than “beaners” will be a step towards immigration reform.

2. Outlines
Does the definition of immigrants in “Beaner” as more than “beaners” help to lead towards immigration reform?
Note the elements of this question:
Poem’s title
Leads to a verb of saying (argues, asserts, says, suggests, or states followed by that)
Group affected
Problem (in this case, implied)
Solution

3. Outlines The thesis answers the research question.
Thesis: “Beaner” suggests that defining immigrants as more than “beaners” will be a step towards immigration reform.
Note the elements of this thesis:
Poem’s title
Verb of saying (argues, asserts, says, suggests, or states followed by that)
Group affected
Problem (in this case, implied)
Solution

4. Outlines See the assignment description for parts: History Poem
Assessment

5. Outlines
You can derive an outline from a well-constructed research question.
Does the definition of immigrants in “Beaner” as more than “beaners” help to lead towards immigration reform?

6. Outlines
Does the definition of immigrants in “Beaner” as more than “beaners” help to lead towards immigration reform?
History of the problem around the poem
Background of poem
Summary of poem
Analysis of poem in its context
History of the problem up to the present or shift in context
Analysis of poem in the present and/or in a new context
Assesment

7. Outlines
Does the definition of immigrants in “Beaner” as more than “beaners” help to lead towards immigration reform?
Recent history of deportation
Background of Molotov
“Beaner” is a song about…
“Beaner”, “Gringo”; other lines
Campaign, possibility of more deportations
The word “illegal” (even worse?); relevant lines
White or other allies?

8. Outlines
Notes:
You will probably have analysis in two parts of your essay. In your outline, include the examples (lines or images you will focus on)
I suggest chronological order