Now you will free write 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: Have you seen this flag displayed? When and where? Have you heard about instances of the display of the Confederate flag—on public buildings, outside people’s houses, or at schools or other gatherings? How do you feel about the display of the flag? Why do you think the flag might still be a point of controversy for people?
The display of the Confederate flag evokes mixed responses. Imagine and describe how the display of the flag and reactions to it might change in the near future.
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.