Domain specific vocabulary: Greenhouse gas emissions

Claim-stated in introduction: Now is the time for the United States to lead other countries in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Evidence: Last fall, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released a report that said that the warming of the Earth’s climate is unequivocal and unprecedented. In addition, the IPCC study found that it was “extremely likely” that humans have played a major role in climate change, especially due to our burning of fossil fuels.  At the same time, the international community has not been able to come up with a shared plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

Transition words to connect ideas and paragraphs:  In addition, At the same time, therefore, In conclusion

Reasoning: The world’s economy, environment and public health are at risk without a significant reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, it is urgent that action be taken now.

Conclusion restating the claim: In conclusion, the time is now for the United States to play a major role in addressing climate change by leading other countries in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.