How to Write an Essay Organizing a Proper

How to Write an Essay Organizing a Proper 5 Paragraph Essay

What is an Essay A basic essay consists of three main parts: INTRODUCTION 3 BODY PARAGRAPHS A CONCLUSION

“FLEE” Map – the basic structure for writing an essay Introduction Reason #1(Evidence #1) Reason #2(Evidence #2) Reason #3 (Evidence #3) Example Explanation Elaboration Example Explanation Elaboration Example Explanation Elaboration Conclusion =Transitions OR

The Introduction General statement that introduces the topic. Additional statements that lead into the thesis statement. Thesis statement.

Introduction – Think of an introduction as an upside down triangle. General statement that introduces the topic. Additional statements that lead into the thesis statement. Thesis statement. General Specific

Strategies for Introductions An intriguing example A provocative quotation (with a lead-in) A general statement or universal observation. Other strategies include: vivid and concise anecdotes, a thought-provoking question, or a surprising fact/statistic (Although these are effective strategies, you will not be using any of these strategies from #4 in your papers).

BODY PARAGRAPHS In a basic 5 paragraph essay, there are 3 body paragraphs that all follow the same structure; but, discuss and prove different points. Each body paragraph should discuss one of the points in your thesis. You are trying to convince the reader that your point is right. Each body paragraph needs a topic sentence, point, and proof. Be sure to use transition phrases to connect your ideas. Write a closing sentence. Do this x3

WRITING A PARAGRAPH A full and complete paragraph consists of a MINIMUM of 8-10 sentences and follows a specific format: TOPIC SENTENCE (1st Sentence) The topic sentence reflects which thesis statement point you will be discussing in the body paragraph. You must PROVE your POINT by providing PROOFS (examples) to support your topic sentence. You must COMMENT on each PROOF to further your analysis. Therefore…POINT (topic sentence) PROOF & COMMENT (x3) CONCLUDING SENTENCE (last sentence) Each paragraph should end with a final statement that brings together the ideas brought up in the paragraph and emphasizes the main point one last time.

Writing a paragraph con’t Body Sentences: As David’s best friend, he is the only non-deviant that David trusts enough to share his secret of telepathy with. Uncle Axel protects David and the other Chrysalids from people in the community of Waknuk who would like to send them to the Fringes. He does this by keeping David’s secret and by killing Alan, who threatened the safety of the Chrysalids. Finally, Uncle Axel gives David advice when he is in trouble and needs the help of an adult. He is trustworthy and loyal, always watching out for David’s best interest. Concluding sentence: Clearly, Uncle Axel is important to the novel as he is the for the main character David.

The Conclusion The conclusion brings together ALL of the main points of the essay. It refers back to and RESTATES the THESIS. The conclusion leaves the reader with a final thought and a sense of closure by resolving any ideas brought up in the essay. #1 RULE IN ANY CONCLUSION YOU CANNOT INTRODUCE ANYTHING NEW!

How to Begin The teacher will provide topic questions which you should brainstorm about. Brainstorming in this case includes finding evidence to support your point. (PROOF) You cannot make a statement about something and not provide evidence that shows that your statement is correct.

Formal Writing Rules Do not use the first or second person (I, my, we, us). Do not use contractions (can’t, won’t, doesn’t). Do not use clichés, metaphors or figures of speech. Avoid saying “The essay will discuss...” or “In my opinion...” Avoid using “a lot”. If you do use it, take care not to repeat it often. Avoid redundancy and repetition. Be specific. Do not use words such as “things” or “many examples”. Do not be vague. Always follow MLA format (see below) Always type and double space. Use size 12 pt font, Times New Roman, and standard 1” margins EDIT, EDIT, EDIT! Save your rough work. When writing about literature, always write in the present tense. I.e. “The Chrysalids is a book about the future” not “The Chrysalids was a book about the future”. Essays should be submitted with one staple in the top left hand corner. Do not put them in folders or duotangs.