Debate '09

Hello Students,

We had a quiet debate this year! We really missed both Alexis and Sarah! However, our special guest, "Pony" did a spectacular job as our talking stick!

How are you doing with writing your thesis statement and outline for this next paper? If you are having a hard time with it, sit down and brainstorm. That's what I do. I pray first; then I just start writing about the topic I've chosen. I'm going to do a sample thesis statement and outline for you people here at the ol' blog, and hopefully, it will help you with your assignment. Since I am not a part of the dating scene any longer (thank God!), and because you need to come up with your own material for your paper, I have chosen a slightly different topic. But you will get the idea!

I Kissed Chocolate Goodbye

Thesis statement:
I. Introduction

     A. Almost everybody loves chocolate.
     B. Chocolate has recently been found to promote good health (antioxidants).
     C. Too much of anything, even chocolate, is not good.
     D. I had a problem with chocolate.
     E. I kissed chocolate goodbye.
     F. THESIS STATEMENT Because a growing addiction was taking over my life, I gave up chocolate for four years in order to strengthen my self-discipline, improve my health, and pursue a deeper relationship with Christ.

II. To strengthen my self-discipline

     A. Chocolate is readily available.
     B. There is nothing inherently wrong with chocolate.
     C. If I can give up chocolate, I can do anything!

III. To improve my health

     A. Too much sugar decreases the ability of the immune system to fight disease.
     B. Too much sugar causes cavities.
     C. The caffeine in chocolate may contribute to migraines and other health problems.

IV. To pursue a deeper relationship with Christ

A. Chocolate may have become an idol in my life.
     B. Giving up chocolate will require me to spend more time in prayer and Bible study.

V. Conclusion: In the concluding paragraph, I will restate my main points and finish up with final thoughts on why kissing chocolate goodbye was the right thing for me to do. I might also want to say something that will persuade my reader to do the same thing--or at least consider it.

Remember, unlike this sample outline, you will be incorporating a book quote in each of your three points. You must have those nailed down and in your outline when you come to class on Tuesday.