4-2 Student Example: Kelly's Outline

Topic: Video Game Addictions


~ Student Outline ~

I. Introduction
Thesis:
Video game addictions is a complex problem that has many symptoms, psychological effects, physical effects; however rehabilitation is possible.


II. Symptoms of video game addiction

A. Definition
B. Cravings, urges
C. Aggression
D. Neglect

III. Psychological Effects
  1. Poor relationships
  2. Mental illness such as depression, social phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder
  3. Poor coping skills
IV. Physical Effects

A. Exhaustion 
B. Migraines 
C. Back-aches 
D. Malnourishment 
E. Lack of Sleep 
F. Withdrawal

V. Rehabilitation

A. Examine habits 
B. 12-step abstinence 
C. Wilderness therapy 
D. Centres
VI. Conclusion

  1. Video game addiction has many symptoms, including both psychological and  physical, but rehabilitation is possible.
  2. B. Be a healthy support for someone else. (Provide resource list).

~ Teacher Comments ~

I. Kelly has organized her report from problem to solution or from cause (symptoms) to effect (psychological effects  and physical effects).
She has has begun by defining and describing the problem and ended by  discussing rehabilitation or the solution to the problem.
II. How to recognize physical symptoms of gaming addiction is an effective topic for a paragraph.

However, because this is the topic of paragraph 3, you might consider the reasons people are addicted to video games. This topic would change your thesis.  


III. Are there emotional effects present? How to recognize emotional effects of gaming addictions could be included here.


IV. Keep similar ideas together. 

If you place "exhaustion" at the beginning of the paragraph, do not end with "lack of sleep". The fifth item listed in this category should be deleted. 

When your ideas in separate paragraphs are very similar (such as physical effects or symptoms of gaming addictions in Paragraph IV and symptoms in Paragraph 1), these paragraphs or ideas should be combined.

V. Describe various types of treatment available. 
How effective are these programs? 

Include success stories....


VI. Restate thesis (summarize main points). 

Provide a powerful concluding statement. 

Include a call to action.






  Please contact your teacher if you have questions.