The second step of the five-step strategy, toward improving your scholarly research writing is to “Explain”:
- In clear terms (simple, direct, accurate, and concise)
- The who, what, where, when, why, or how of your topic
- Convey your concepts, claims, arguments, ideas, or key issues
Using Self-Questioning
Ask yourself,
- “How can I use a compare and contrast graphic organizer to help me identify similarities and differences"?
- “How do I “Explain” the similarities and differences found that are for my stance”?
- “How do I “Explain” the similarities and differences found that counter-argue my stance”?
Applying the Strategy
1) Use the opposing (counter-argument) similarities and differences identified to:
- First, “Explain” the counter-argument of your concept, claim, argument, idea, or key issue.
- Second, refute the counter-argument and “Explain” the similarities and differences that support your stance.
2) Or, use some of the similarities and differences that support your stance to:
- “Explain” your concept, claim, argument, idea, or key issue.
- Next, “Explain” the counter-argument.
- Lastly, refute the counter-argument by using the rest of the similarities and differences to “Explain” (reconfirm) your stance.
