Now you will freewrite on the discussion topic for 10 minutes. You’ll use the result of this freewriting to form an outline. Freewriting is a brainstorming exercise that will help you overcome any hesitation you may feel in expressing your views. Write continuously for 10 minutes on the topic, without paying attention to grammar, spelling, or sentence structure. Think about these questions to guide your thoughts on the topic: Which Black Americans do you think should be commemorated for their service in the Civil War? Why is it important to remember their contributions? Which type of monument or tribute do you think would best honor them?
Why would your imagined commemoration be the best tribute? How is it better than other monuments or memorials? How does it connect to a particular legacy?
Imagine seeing a fitting monument to Black Americans in the Civil War. Describe what it would look like and sound like. Explain how it would make you and other visitors feel.
Organize the points you made while freewriting on the topic and form an outline of what you want to say about the topic. You may present your ideas as a list or in a graphic organizer, such as a cluster web.