Research Paper/Project English II Research Paper/Project

Parts of an Essay Introduction Body Paragraphs (3) Conclusion Thesis Statement Body Paragraphs (3) Conclusion

You will be graded on… What you wrote about (content) Grammar, spelling, etc. Is your essay organized logically? Does it flow? Does it make sense? Did you answer the questions or prompt? *** DO NOT use personal pronouns (unless otherwise directed)

Steps to Write an Essay Brainstorm possible topics (we will be doing this together) Decide which topic you are going to write about Plan your essay Decide how to start your essay Quote, Statement, or Question Write your introductory sentences (2-3) Write your thesis Write your body paragraphs Write your conclusion

Citations Works cited is a separate page!! You must include every single source that you use!! Use MLA Citations https://owl.English.purdue.edu/owl/resource/747/01/ You must include in-text citations Use a quote and then attribute the source in ( ) Or you can write: According to Shaun Tan in a recent interview, but you still have to attribute the source in ( )

Common Mistakes Not using present tense Not using active voice Not using size 12 font that is not bold or italics Extra spacing between paragraphs Not using double-spacing Telling instead of showing (USE EVIDENCE)

Common Mistakes (cont.) Not supporting your statements with textual evidence Using run-on sentences Not naming the text; simply writing “the song” or “the book”. Using poor grammar ---- know your contractions (it’s vs. its)and how to properly use commas, etc.

Writing Prompt/Topic You will be given a prompt/topic that gives you directions for what to write and what form to use. Ex: Write an article for your school newspaper on the effects of technology on everyday life. Or: Write a letter explaining the meaning of responsibility as it relates to the high school experience Make sure you read it closely (more than once) and underline any key words. You should include those key words in your introduction Use the information given to you (statistics, quotes, etc.)

Introduction It is the first part someone will read----first impression General overview of what your ENTIRE essay is about Start off with a strong statement, quote, statistic, question, etc. Add a transitional/connecting sentence Next comes your thesis --- which re-states the prompt and your stance/opinion on the topic. DO NOT write: “In this paper, I’m going to tell you about…”

Thesis Statement Outlines exactly what your essay is about Should have 3 “parts” that correlate to each of your body paragraphs EX: If your thesis say you are going to talk about X and Y, one of your body paragraphs should be about X and the other will discuss Y. Is clear, concise, and does NOT provide information NOT covered in your essay Use key words your underlined in the prompt DO NOT write: “my essay is about…” or “my opinion” or “I think…”.

Body Paragraphs Discuss the ideas listed in your thesis Roughly 6-10 sentences You MUST provide support for your thoughts with details, descriptions, experiences, examples, etc. from the text. Include transitional statements to connect paragraphs Use words like however, therefore, although, nevertheless, etc.

Conclusion Similar to the introduction, but says it in a new way Ties all your points from the body paragraphs together Restates your thesis Ends with a strong statement that leaves the reader thinking. DO NOT write: “In conclusion…”