Using T.E.A. to
Build a Persuasive
Paragraph*
A sample paragraph:
[1]While
globalization benefits large corporations, it creates a cycle of underemployment
for low wage workers. [2]According to
Bob Smith, lead economist for the Institute for Economic Advancement,
“Globalization has resulted in continued corporate growth, while the adjusted
wages for the average worker will continue to fall at a rate of 2.3 % per year”
(Jones 26). [3] Smith's observation shows
that the economic benefits of globalization do not trickle down to the average
worker. The actual buying power of a low
wage earner decreases as a result of this economic
structure.
How to understand this persuasive paragraph
using T.E.A.:
T.... Thesis, topic, theme: [1]
· Introduce each paragraph with a topic
sentence.
· Ask yourself, “What point do I want this
paragraph to prove?”
· The topic of the paragraph should be a key
point to support your thesis.
Ex:
While globalization benefits large
corporations, it creates a cycle of underemployment
for low wage workers.
E.... Evidence: [2]
· Use examples from your research to prove the
point of your paragraph.
· Introduce the source of your evidence.
· Use citations so the reader knows where your
evidence comes from.
Ex: According to Bob Smith, lead economist
for the Institute for Economic Advancement, “Globalization has resulted in
continued corporate growth, while the adjusted wages for the average worker
will continue to fall at a rate of 2.3 % per year” (Jones 26).
A....
Analysis: [3]
· EXPLAIN how the evidence you used supports
your topic sentence.
· Remember—the quote or example DOES NOT speak
for itself. Your job as the writer is to
draw connections for the reader.
· Use phrases such as these: shows, this
demonstrates or this is an example of...
These tells the reader you are about to draw
conclusions/make connections.
· REMAIN IN 3rd PERSON!! You can
clearly express your opinion without saying “I think.”
Ex: Smith's observation shows that the economic
benefits of globalization do not trickle down to the average worker. The actual buying power of a low wage earner decreases as a result of this economic
structure.
*f. Julie
Veltman, “History 10,”