Brainstorming-Tricks+to+Help+You+Start+A+Paper

Students,

In a week our classes will an argumentative paper about a topic of your choice. Since you will be able to select a topic that interests you, you must get your idea approved by me. I have included some ideas to help you start brainstorming about ideas or arguments you find intriguing or would like to better explore. However, it is important to consider 1) how much you already know and 2) the amount of research you would like to do about the topic. Although you will be researching any topic you choose to complete, it would be wise to pick a topic that genuinely interests you. Lastly, when brainstorming about possible topics, remember the more controversial the argument is, the more you will be likely to find information supporting both views of the debate.

**Methods and Tips for Brainstorming**
 * Set up a time limit! This way you will feel more compelled to come up with ideas of interest.
 * Create a Venn Diagram. How much do you really know about the topic? This method will help you determine how much research you would need to complete.
 * Talk it out! Are you torn between many ideas? Chat with your neighbor or friend to work out your feelings and your possible argument?
 * Mapping—if you are a visual learner this a great method for creating a ‘guide’ of arguments that interest you.
 * Read first. Grab a local newspaper and read various articles that grab your attention. Controversial topics in news may spark your creativity!
 * Don’t agree? Ask your parents about ‘big ideas’ they used to fight about with their parents. After talking, see if you agree or disagree.
 * Accept all ideas! Write everything down during the brainstorming stage—don’t worry about narrowing topics down until you have created a long list.

**Questions to Think About** //What is your opinion about…// banned books? global warming? America’s government? liberal education? animal testing? bullying? obesity in America? National debt? school lunch?

//*When you have completed this step, feel free to move on to the next step of the writing process Drafting.//