Part A :

Could I ask for some advice about writing the paper I'm working on about the Vikings?

I have to do that this week, and I'm a bit stuck.

Of course.

Have you decided yet what to write about?

No, I haven't.

There's so much that seems interesting - Viking settlement in other countries, trade, mythology ...

Well, what I suggest is that you read an assignment a student wrote last year,

which is kept in the library.

It's short and well focused,

and I'm sure you'll find it helpful.

I'll give you the details in a moment.

Textbooks usually cover so many topics, it can be very difficult to choose just one.

OK.I've got a DVD of the film about the Vikings that came out earlier this year.

Should I watch that again?

If it's the one I am thinking of, hmm, I'd ignore it - it's more fantasy than reality.

But I've got a recording of a documentary that you should watch.

It makes some interesting and provocative points,

which I think will help you to focus your topic.

Right.

So then should I work out an outline?

Yes.

Just headings for different sections. at this stage.

And then you should start looking for suitable articles and books to draw on,

and take notes which you organise according to those headings.

I see.

Then put short phrases and sentences as bullet points under each heading.

Make sure that this skeleton makes sense and flows properly,

before writing up the paper in full.

OK. Thanks, that's very helpful.