To help with your note-taking, make a copy of each of the documents below. The first one is a Cornell Notes template including guidelines for using each of the sections. You can use this for note-taking but it would be better to keep this version with instructions for reference as you get used to this type of note-taking. The second document is a simple Cornell Notes template with blank spaces in each of the sections. You can either use this digitally or print it and take notes manually.
What is a PEEL paragraph?
PEEL is a model for paragraphing that helps you to make sure you are presenting a complete and supported idea that relates to your overall topic or argument (thesis). Using a paragraphing model like this will help you to develop as a writer and will ensure that your ideas are parceled together in an organized and comprehensible way. Here is what it stands for:
Point: Every paragraph begins with a topic sentence or a statement that delivers the point or purpose of the paragraph.
Evidence: Every claim or point must be supported with evidence. This might be a direct quotation, a paraphrase or the sharing of data from a source. Make sure you use in-text citation and reference the source in your Works Cited. This might be more than one sentence with more than one piece of evidence. This will depend on the topic and the length of the assignment.
Explanation: You need to explain the connection between the evidence you are providing and the point you are making. Note that you can sometimes reverse the explanation and the evidence, depending on what makes the most sense. Also, depending on the topic or the length of the assignment, one paragraph might include evidence from different sources and explanations for each piece of evidence (or an explanation of the connection between them).
Link: End your paragraph with a link to the main idea or argument you are presenting.