The Hamburger Outline printable pdf download

The Hamburger Outline

HOW TO WRITE A PARAGRAPH

THE HAMBURGER OUTLINE

(the top bun)

SENTENCE #1:

TOPIC SENTENCE

Purpose:

What is this paragraph about?

One idea only!

State clearly: One main point/example from the text which proves your thesis (argument)

(the veggies)

SENTENCE #2:

EXPLANATION SENTENCE

Purpose:

Summarize the situation in the text

State clearly: The 5 Ws (who, what, when, where, why and how)

(the meat)

SENTENCE #3:

TEXTUAL EVIDENCE (your proof!)

Purpose:

Quotation or paraphrasing (with citation) that supports your argument

State clearly: Key details from the text that prove your point

Your words + “quotation” + (author, page #)

Format:

(the condiments)

SENTENCE #4:

ANALYSIS OF EVIDENCE

Purpose:

Explain the meaning of the quotation/paraphrasing

State clearly: Why this part is referring to your main point/example

Subject’s key terms and concepts

Include:

(the bottom bun)

SENTENCE #5:

LINKING SENTENCE

Purpose:

How this main point/example proves your thesis

State clearly: Why the main point/example is directly connected to your thesis

Could include: Transition where you hint at what your next main point/example will be

The Hamburger Outline