This week’s discussion has two parts: Step 1: First, establish the position you

This week’s discussion has two parts: Step 1: First, establish the position you are taking on your topic by sharing your claim (or thesis) statement. Keep in mind that your claim statement is the backbone of your argument, expressing the entire point of your essay. Step 2: Next, share your most compelling piece of evidence by posting a full body paragraph. A good body paragraph explains, proves, and supports your overall argument. Follow the following format: Topic Sentence: Reveals the main point of the paragraph and identifies your first argumentative point. Your topic sentence should be directly connected to your claim statement. Support Point and Illustration: Introduce evidence. Reinforce your topic sentence with examples. Explanation: Illustrate how your evidence is connected to your thesis statement.