Thesis: We must examine the issue of X
more thoroughly. In particular, we should focus on 1, 2, 3, and 4.
X=overall argument
1, 2, 3, 4 = supporting points
Introduction: get reader’s attention; introduce TSIS essay (inc. author, title, main argument); clarify what
direction you’re taking TSIS essay; your thesis = your argument plus supporting points
SAMPLE BODY PARAGRAPH TOPIC SENTENCES BELOW
1
In order to understand X
1
Another aspect of
1
1
Furthermore, 1
also involves ____.
2
In addition to
, the issue of
2
Moreover, another way of examining
2
1
, we must examine
2___ can also help us understand X
2___ is to _____.
Indeed, 2___ can also be understood by _______.
While
3
Moreover, another important aspect of , 3
3
Furthermore, 3
4
carefully.
is _____.
3
4
1
2___ is crucial to understanding X
Conclusion
is _____.
also involves _____.
Finally, besides 3
In addition, 4
, 3___ is equally important.
, another key issue to examine is 4
also includes _____.
.
.
Karen Gaffney
English I
Sample body paragraph: working on elaboration, flow, and integration of sources
In order to understand X
, we must examine
1
carefully. The issue of
1
is important because
_____. This issue involves _____. A biologist at the University of Michigan did a study of _______. Her results showed
that _____. In describing her research, she said, “_________” (author page). In other words, ______. Her research shows
that
1
is important because _____. In addition, it shows that
1
newspaper article titled “______” similarly reinforces the importance of
must be understood because ____. A recent
1
by focusing on ______. It examines how
_____. The author writes, “_______” (author page). This quote essentially means that ______. It helps support the
importance of 1
understand X
by addressing _____. Together, these two sources highlight 1
, which ultimately helps us
more effectively.
Note the following characteristics of the above support paragraph template:
 Has a topic sentence that introduces supporting point and is linked to overall argument
 Explains why the supporting point is important
 Slowly and clearly introduces the sources before bringing in a quote from the sources
 Follows through on quotes by interpreting them
 The introduction of the source and follow-up interpretation combine to make good “quote sandwiches”
 The majority of the words are not from the sources