How to Write an Outline-Source Analysis Written Response

How to Write an Outline for the Source Analysis Written Response

The Social Studies Source Analysis written response consists of the following.

• the analysis of provided sources to demonstrate your understanding of the message reflected in the source based on a provided question
  
• your response (in written essay form) to a question regarding the message(s) reflected in the sources
• your position: establish and argue your position on the question
• supporting evidence:  provide and explain supporting evidence from Social Studies and current/historical events

The Outline for a Source Analysis

An outline is similar to a plan. You want to ensure you are covering all the required areas of the assignment, as well as organizing your ideas so they flow smoothly from one point to another. An outline is like a list that organizes your arguments about a topic. An outline is usually in point form, not in complete sentences. An outline acts like the foundation of a house, whereas an essay acts like the walls and the roof. Obviously, you need the foundation before you can build the rest of the house.

An outline for the Source Analysis written response can consist of the following elements.

1. Introduction: The first paragraph in your essay should introduce the topic as follows.
   
   
   1. Review and rephrase the central question. Usually the question will look like "What does each of the sources on page # and # communicate about the role of _______________ in society?".
      
   2. Make a general statement about the sources. What is each source saying about the central question? Paraphrase the central message in each source.
   3. Analyze the sources by demonstrating an understanding of the position the sources take on the central question. For example, is the message in the source FOR or AGAINST the question? What main details can you identify that support the position in each source? 
   4. Stateyour thesis or position on the central question. What do YOU believe is the role of...?
   5. List the main arguments you will use to support your position.

2. Body: Each main argument is a paragraph. Points should follow in the same order as they are stated in the introduction.
   
   
   1. First source analysis
      
      1. Summarize the source. What is it (photo, cartoon, quote, map, graph, etc.)?
         
      2. What is the main message in regard to the central question?
         
      3. Explain details from the source to support the source's message
      4. Do you agree/disagree with the source's message? Why?
         
   2. Second source analysis
      1. Summarize the source. What is it (photo, cartoon, quote, map, graph, etc.)?
         
      2. What is the main message in regard to the central question?
         
      3. Explain details from the source to support the source's message.
      4. Do you agree/disagree with the source's message? Why?
   3. Third source analysis
      1. Summarize the source. What is it (photo, cartoon, quote, map, graph, etc.)?
      2. What is the main message in regard to the central question?
         
      3. Explain details from the source to support the source's message.
      4. Do you agree/disagree with the source's message? Why?

3. Final Paragraph: Restate your position on the central question as follows.
   
   
   1. Restate and explain your position on the central question. Why is your position important to consider?
   2. Include evidence (current/historical events, newspaper articles, media, readings) to support your position. What is currently happening (or happened in the past) that reinforces your position?
      
   3. Make a concluding statement on your position. Do not bring in any new ideas, but give the reader a reason to keep thinking.