Step One: Introduction
Your essay must begin with an introduction that starts with a thesis statement. Your thesis statement must respond to the bolded prompt above. Underline or highlight your thesis statement.
Step Two: Body of Essay (Using Evidence to Support Your Thesis)
Organize the body of your essay in paragraphs that each have a clear topic sentence (the main point of the paragraph). The topic sentence must support your thesis, so always keep your thesis (the main point/contention/argument) of your paper in mind as you construct each paragraph. Organize your paragraphs by topic; then use one or more (related) primary sources that explain or illustrate your main point. Each paragraph should be several sentences long. Use transitions at the end of each paragraph to move from one topic to the next.
Each paragraph must use evidence from the primary sources we have read and discussed. Use the evidence to support your thesis. You must use at least 8 of the primary sources previously discussed. Don’t guess what the primary sources mean.
Step Three: Conclusion
Your essay must end with a concluding paragraph. Your conclusion should reiterate your main thesis from your introduction as well as the most important main points or topics you explored throughout the essay, and should explain the significance of the topic (in other words, “why is this important/significant to the study of early American history?”).
Mechanics and Citations
For your writing assignment, double-space your paper, use 12-point font and standard margins. Cite your sources (use MLA Links to an external site. or Chicago Manual Style. Links to an external site. Your essay should be a minimum of 8 – 10 good paragraphs.