English Idea Map

English Idea Map

Using idea mapping software such as Inspiration 9 (available for free in all college computer labs) or the good, old-fashioned way using paper and pen, create idea map to help you brainstorm on your topic.  

Please upload your idea map (snap a photo if necessary). 

https://archive.org/stream/a_raisin_in_the_sun/a_raisin_in_the_sun_-_lorraine_hansberry_djvu.txt

From Idea Map to Outline

• Based on the various "bubbled" ideas of your idea map, generate a thesis statement.  Remember that this thesis statement should respond to the prompt (answer the question asked of you).  Include this thesis in your outline.  
• Also list out your various supporting claims based on the bubbled ideas.   
• Re-sequence these points as necessary.  What order makes the best sense for your various supporting claims?  What information would readers appreciate earlier rather than later in your paper?
• Now take a look at each supporting claim.  Can you break these claims down further?  For example, does a claim include a specific concept that needs a detailed definition, perhaps a definition that might require an entire paragraph's worth of discussion?  If so, you might generate a new "definition paragraph" in which you fully explain the concept to your readers.
• Do you have sufficient examples for each claim?
• Are any examples complicated and thus require much discussion?  If so, consider creating a separate example paragraph to "house" this particular example.