Writing an Essay

Basic Structure Introduction Body Conclusion

The Introduction Grabs the reader’s attention Helps the reader understand the topic States the focus of your essay (thesis)

Grabbing the reader’s attention Use of figurative language Use a strong example Set up the topic so that the reader can connect to the essay

Example Introduction Imagine having the opportunity to interview anyone you wanted to? If I had this once in a lifetime chance, I’d interview my favorite writer Junot Diaz.

THESIS – Main idea of your essay Gives your essay focus Every paragraph should in some way support the thesis

Thesis Junot Diaz has a unique writing style and writes about characters and situations that no one else writes about; also he is the first Hispanic to win a Pulitzer prize.

Supporting Details The thesis should be backed up by supporting details.

Supporting Details Supporting details must: relate to the topic support the thesis Be organized in a way that makes sense (one detail should flow to the next; they should be related somehow)

Transitions

Transitions Transitions indicate that you are about to change direction; they help your reader move easily from one idea to the next.

Transitions Furthermore, I’m really interested in interviewing Junot Diaz because he is the first Hispanic to win a Pulitzer Prize in literature.

Transitions First Second Next Last Finally To organize a list of steps or to indicate sequence

Transitions Building a position: Furthermore Additionally/in addition Also As well as Moreover Consequently As a result

The Conclusion The conclusion helps the reader understand how your points prove your thesis to be correct. Don’t be repetitive! Find a creative way to sum up your most important points.

The Conclusion Example: As you can see, Junot Diaz is truly an admirable person. Interviewing him would be a unique opportunity to gain insight into the mind of one of literature’s most unique minds. As someone who enjoys literature, it would be an honor to interview someone who has been so successful.

The Expository Essay The purpose of the expository essay is to explore or explain an issue or idea.

Sample Prompt Friends are important, but everyone has a different opinion of what makes a good friend. Explain what, in your opinion makes a good friend.

Your Assignment: Come up with a thesis for the prompt. Brainstorm three supporting details.