Chapter Two: The Writing Process
ii. Select main points that support your thesis.
iii. Three to five main points in an essay works well.
d. Clustering
i. Write the topic in the center of a page and draw a circle around it.
ii. Draw lines out from the center circle.
iii. Write a main point at the end of each line and circle it.
iv. Continue to extend the lines, with additional circles containing
supporting ideas.
v. Consider creating a new cluster when the original cluster shows
many ideas in one area.
e. Creating a graphic organizer
i. When describing, appeal to the senses.
ii. When narrating, answer the journalist’s questions.
iii. When explaining a process, describe steps in chronological order.
iv. When explaining causes and effects, make a list of the causes and
the effects relating to your topic.
v. When comparing and contrasting, create a Venn diagram.
vi. When persuading, list details to support your thesis.
vii. When evaluating, make a list of the criteria you will use.
viii. Solving a problem, write out the pros and cons for several solutions.
f. Ordering ideas
i. Determine how to arrange your main points logically.
ii. Consider making a list or an outline of the main points.
iii. Utilize formal or informal outlines as needed.
g. Outlining
i. Informal outlines are lists of main points and their support.
ii. Formal outlines have a defined structure of points and
sub points.
IV. Composing (page 28)
Learning Outcome 2-3: Compose a document.
a. Use your discovery and planning stage ideas to create a rough draft.
b. Use your cluster or outline as a guide.
c. Focus on the first four points of the Rhetorical Star.
d. Concentrate on getting your ideas on paper and not on the presentation.
e. Write the easiest part first to build your confidence.
f. Don’t expect perfection.
g. Write until you’ve covered all of the main points you planned to address.
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