Text version for Accordion Drop Down on Review It page

Topic 1: Introduction (Claim)

The introduction should include a sentence or paragraph that clearly states the claim.

In the following example, the sentence beginning, “Now is the time” illustrates an introduction.

Topic 2: Evidence and Reasoning
A claim should be supported with evidence and reasoning. The evidence and reasoning will make up the body of your explanation and should be organized logically.

In the following example, the sentence beginning, “Last fall, the Intergovernmental Panel,” illustrates evidence and reasoning.

Example:
Greenhouse gas emissions from human activity are having a significant impact on climate change. Now is the time for the United States to lead other countries in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
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. 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.

Topic 3: Transitions

Use transition words to connect ideas in your explanation.

In the example below, the following words are transition words that connect ideas: In addition, At the same time, therefore, in conclusion.

Example:
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. 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.
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.

Topic 4: Vocabulary
Include domain-specific vocabulary to make your explanation clearer and more precise.

In the example below, the following words are domain-specific vocabulary words that make the explanation more clear and precise: Greenhouse gas emissions, climate change.

Topic 5: Formal Style
Using a formal writing style will help to ensure that your explanation is clear and accurate. Formal writing is often objective and unbiased.

Notice how the style of writing in the sample explanation uses facts and examples, as opposed to opinions, to support the claim. Using an objective tone helps to validate the claim, allowing the reader to focus on understanding the topic.

Topic 6: Conclusion (Restated Claim)
Write a conclusion that restates or reinforces the importance of your claim.

The example below illustrates the conclusion that restates or reinforces the importance of the claim.

Example:
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.