Final answer:
Downes' thesis is likely placed at the beginning of her work, known as thesis-first organization, to guide readers through the argument and establish a clear standpoint. This strategic placement allows for a declarative foundation of her paper and helps reinforce the argument when revisited at the end.
Step-by-step explanation:
Downes' placement of her thesis can vary, but it is often positioned at the beginning of the essay. The thesis statement acts as a roadmap for the paper and sets the tone and direction for the reader. Presenting the thesis early on, known as thesis-first organization, helps to establish a clear viewpoint and argument, making it easy for readers to understand the writer's stance on the issue.
By stating the thesis at the top of the page or at the start of the essay, Downes likely intends to guide the reader through her argument by providing a clear and declarative statement from the outset. Such a choice can emphasize the analytical approach of the essay, allowing her to connect key points on which she will expand later, as was the case with Garrison and Tran's essays mentioned earlier.
In cases where the thesis is revisited at the end of an essay, like Lily Tran's work, it serves to reinforce the argument and ensure the reader is left with the core message to think about. Reiterating the thesis can be a powerful tool in solidifying the argument made throughout the paper.