Questions:
1. What is the thesis? The thesis is the main argument(s) or claim in the text. It is usually
(but not always) found in the introduction section (first few paragraphs) of the text. It is
usually one to three sentences that sums up the whole argument in the argument. If
the article that follows does not support the thesis, you have chosen the wrong thesis.
Label your answer Thesis. Some theses can be quoted straight or partially from text. If you do so, use quotation
marks and cite the page number (p. 458). Others, you will have to use your own words
to explain.
2. Outline the argument of the text. To convince the reader of the argument, the author
usually makes several points using evidence. List (1, 2, 3, ect.) the essential points of the
essay. These are points that the thesis relies on and without them, the thesis would be
unconfirmed. Often these points are reflected in topic and conclusion sentences is usually the sentence in an early and/or late paragraph of a section that explains the
main idea of that section. When an article shifts topics or emphasis, that usually marks
a new point.
3. Note and explain the key evidence used throughout the text. Authors support their
arguments and points with sources of information. After each point, list (i, ii, iii, iv,
ect.), the name and type (kind) of the source and explain how and why is it important to
the point or overall article. This is may seem hard, but your gut description is just fine.
4. Does this article prove that there is an African Diaspora? How or why not? Explain.
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