**Sample Outline
Note: This is NOT the question you are answering, but can show you an example of how to break up
ideas.
This is an OUTLINE. If this essay was to be written, each part would be developed, expanded, and
connected.
Question: Do you think that all immigrants should learn English (use Amy Tan)?
Thesis Statement: While learning English is important, immigrants to Canada should not be required to
learn English because some of them are older, some of them may not have time to learn a new
language, and Canada is a multicultural country.
Support 1: Some of them are older
Topic Sentence: One of the reasons that English shouldn’t be required is to help older immigrants.
-Older people have trouble learning
-Older people have lived here a long time
-They have their children to help them—quote from Amy Tan
Support 2: some may not have time to learn a new language
Topic Sentence: Another reason why English should not be required is because some people do not have
time.
-It can take a long time to learn English
-Many immigrants have to go straight to work when they get to Canada
-Some immigrants learn a little English and struggle to learn more (Amy Tan’s mother—cite
example)
Support 3: Canada is a multicultural Country
Topic Sentence: Lastly, Canada is a multicultural country, and thus many languages should be respected.
-People don’t have to learn English because there are resources in many languages
-The country should respect all of the different languages that exist here
-Many people already speak multiple languages so they can communicate with different people