Given a Topic

Locate the Thesis

When given a topic, the teacher usually provides the thesis statement. Read the sentences given and determine which one is the central idea that you must focus on in the paper. This sentence will make a connection between an idea that has been introduced and the literature. The term paper is about the readings and therefore the thesis MUST be the sentence that mentions the stories, characters, etc.

Using the Literature

The list of titles is also provided. Your thesis is proven through your explanation of the texts. You must make specific references to the characters, scenes, conflicts, etc. that are apparent in the works and support the thesis statement. You must also quote from each piece of literature at least once.

Using the Research

The articles and books that you have found for your paper are used only to support your ideas. They are a source of information for you and possibly a guide to developing your ideas. They are NEVER to be discussed or summarized in your paper.
You must quote from each of your sources. These quotations are chosen because the support YOUR ideas. You do not tell the reader all about the article. You provide the quotation and then explain how it relates to your idea.

  • Return to Term Paper Help Center
  • Return to Nierer Homepage 1