Research Paper Pattern 4 Outline

THESIS: The Keystone XL pipeline should continue construction because it would benefit the environment, mend
relationships with Canada, and positively impact communities.

I. First Main Point: The Keystone XL pipeline would benefit the environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions
A. Counterclaim topic sentence
1. Critics would argue that the pipeline would actually hurt the environment and do further
damage.
a) Counterclaim supporting details
(1) Spills
(2) Emissions
(3)
B. Supporting detail 1 topic sentence
1. The pipeline would be much safer than the current transport of the oil by rail.
a) Supporting details
(1) Spills in pipes v rail
(2) Cleanup of the spills
(3) Waterways slicks caused by derailments
C. Supporting detail 2 topic sentence
1. Using the the pipeline would be more environmentally friendly
a) Supporting details
(1) Transportation uses currently
(2) Pipeline path
(3)

II. Second Main Point: Resuming construction would help mend relations with Canada.
A. Counterclaim topic sentence
1. Others would say that Canada is not that important of a partner to the United States.
a) Counterclaim supporting details
(1) Commodities that we trade are very few
(2) Oil can come from other countries
(3)
B. Supporting detail 2 topic sentence
1. Oil prices would be increased as we are currently seeing without the Canadian oil.
a) Supporting details
(1) Transport prices
(2) Distance for the oil to travel
(3) Canada will export oil to other countries
C. Supporting detail 1 topic sentence
1. The commodities and services we trade with Canada supply an abundance of jobs in America
a) Supporting details
(1) Refineries
(2) Vehicles
(3) Plastics

III. Third Main Point: Environmentalist groups are overlooking the community benefits.
A. Counterclaim topic sentence
1. Many environmentalists will say that land and communities will suffer and the natives are scared
of safety.
a) Counterclaim supporting details
(1) Land is damaged
(2) Communities are harmed
 (3) Natives fear the safety of the pipeline
B. Supporting detail 1 topic sentence
1. The effects from the construction are very little and leave the ground somewhat undisturbed.
a) Supporting details
(1) Space used for pipeline access
(2) The small amount of land will remain dormant
(3) It will continue to be green
C. Supporting detail 2 topic sentence
1. The pipeline would generate money for the communities in many different ways.
a) Supporting details
(1) Some native tribes have equity with the pipeline
(2) Bring in more jobs
D. Supporting detail 3 topic sentence
1. The protocols and technology around the pipelines continue to improve, increasing the safety of
them.
a) Supporting details
(1) New technology
(2) Fittings and seals are being checked on more frequently