SAMPLE ARISTOTELIAN OUTLINE
Depending on the organizational pattern you choose, you will outline your presentation
accordingly. Below is an example of a traditional Aristotelian outline, consisting of an
Introduction (attention getter, thesis, purpose, significance, and preview), Body (two to three
main points) and a Conclusion (review, and closing statement (tie to attention getter). All points
on an Aristotelian outline should be labeled as full sentence claims.
I.
Introduction (tell us your name)
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
Attention Getter: (should make us sit up and pay attention)
Thesis: (a one sentence summary of the Body)
Purpose: (to inform or persuade)
Significance: (explains why the topic is important/first citation)
Preview: (list and provide some detail about the major claims)
TRANSITION: (a sentence which moves you from where you’ve been to where you’re going)
II.
Body
A.
Major Claim
1.
Supporting Claim
a.
b.
c.
2.
3.
supporting claim
i.
supporting claim
ii.
supporting claim
supporting claim
i.
supporting claim
ii.
supporting claim
supporting claim
Supporting claim
a.
supporting claim
b.
supporting claim
supporting claim
TRANSITION
B.
Major Claim
1.
supporting claim
2.
supporting claim
TRANSITION
C.
Major Claim
1.
2.
supporting claim
a.
supporting claim
b.
supporting claim
supporting claim
a.
supporting claim
b.
supporting claim
i.
supporting claim
ii.
supporting claim
TRANSITION
III.
Conclusion
A.
Review: (remind us about the major claims)
B.
Closing Statement: (should be tied to the A.G.)
The outline is a sample, it is meant to illustrate subordination & coordination. The
numbering/lettering used for your speech will vary depending on how much detail and
support is needed to explain the major claim. Your outline should, however, follow the
tabbing & spacing as it appears in the sample.
You will be evaluated on the Outline format, Outline content, Delivery, and ability to
adhere to the time requirement