1. iPods (brainstorming list) BenefitsDrawbacks Convenient. Lightweight, portable, massive memory, rechargeable, etc. Newer Features Video, etc. Access to information, not just music. Books, podcasts, course material. Motivational Especially with exercise. Relaxing and Entertaining Especially when stressed or bored. Allows cheaper options than whole CDs. Instant availability to most any song. Cost $ (though some might disagree). Potential damage to hearing. Distracting. Ignoring, annoying, endangering, and shutting out other people. Distracting user from other things such as school work. While most love iPods during a workout, iPods might distract some from “listening” to their body. The art of the LP has diminished. More people listen to hits than the artist’s whole creation. Artists hurt by illegal downloading. Accidents—Cars, sidewalks, treadmills.

2. iPods: Sample Outline (selecting & organizing ideas) Title: make a catchy one (not Essay #1 or iPods) Introduction 1. Hook 2. General overview of topic 3. Thesis: Makes a claim (takes a clear overall stance) (Note: My thesis is meant to discourage student imitation) My thesis is that “iPods are best characterized by all their disadvantages, as they can have a negative impact on the health and education of their users, and they can have a negative effect upon on musicians as well.” The thesis above takes a clear stance and has three main points, which will be the guiding organizational principle for the essay. Be Original—Do Not Use the Same Thesis.

3. Body Paragraph 1 Topic Sentence: A clear assertion with this main point: iPods can have negative impact on one’s health Hearing Explain what I’ve read about this idea Illustrate with a brief but vivid example or two Use personal experience, observation, or knowledge Accidents due to distraction (sidewalk, treadmill, car, etc.) Less focused workouts?

4. Body Paragraph 2 Topic Sentence: A clear assertion with this main point: iPods can distract people from educational goals Distracting in class & library Procrastination with homework Loss of focus & concentration with homework Might have negative effect on attention spans

5. Body Paragraph 3 Topic Sentence: A clear assertion with this main point: iPods can have drawbacks for musicians. We manipulate their art and artistic vision. Many listen to hits instead of whole albums. Many download music illegally, depriving musicians of potential profits. Some others in the music industry, such as record stores and radio stations, have also suffered.

6. Tips: 1. Include a very brief summary. 2. Emphasize the significance/relevance of your essay topic by keeping the “so what?” question in mind. For example, offer some thought along these lines: “Reflecting on the impact of iPods is especially relevant because…” 3. Leave the reader with something more to think about. Perhaps imagine or suggest what the future may hold. Conclusion