Here are two solid templates that can be applied to your research papers for English 1A and 1C:
Choice Number One:
One. An introduction, either one paragraph or one-page, which could be based on a personal anecdote that is relevant to your essay's theme. Or write a one-page extended definition of a term that your reader may not understand and this term is essential to understanding your theme. You can even use a personal anecdote to illustrate the word you're defining. Or you can use one of a variety of methods.
Two. Following the introduction, a thesis followed by 4 or 5 mapping components, which provide the how or the why of your thesis.
Three. Write 4-6 support paragraphs that are well developed (130-180 words). Eighty percent of your support should be in your own words. Twenty percent should be quotations, paraphrases, and summaries of your consulted outside sources.
Four: Conclusion: A dramatic restatement of your thesis.
Five: An MLA Style Works Cited page.
Choice Number Two: Counter-Argument; also called the Refutation Essay
One: In your introduction you give context to a debate, showing its two sides.
Two: You explain three or four objectives to a prevailing argument (which you will defend later in your essay). This should take you three or four paragraphs.
Three: You transition to your thesis, which is to refute these objections.
Four: In three to four paragraphs, you show why the objections you provided earlier in your essay are NOT defensible.
Five: Your conclusion is a restatement of your thesis in more dramatic form.
Six: MLA Works Cited page.