English 1201 How to Write An Essay

Essay Structure

Introduction The top bun of the hamburger Restate the question Introduce the name and author of the novel If theme is required it must be provided Use the writing prompt to help write a full thematic statement Include the thesis statement (preview supporting details or premises) at the end.

Body Paragraphs The hamburger meat and toppings Be SPECIFIC - avoid plot summary EXPLAIN, rather than RE-TELLING THE STORY Use direct references or specific examples to support what you are arguing Keep. It. Simple. = CLARITY

Body Paragraphs Topic sentences that are straightforward and answer the question; they should relate back to a premise in the thesis statement Specific detail from the novel to support topic: Provide contextual lead-in if using a direct quote (Who is speaking? To whom? Where does it occur in the plot?) Specific example or direct quote Explanation of how the example supports the topic sentence Link to theme if required Clincher sentences which show WHY you are using the example and its treatment (to develop theme, etc.)

Conclusion The bottom bun of the hamburger Restate the title (and theme if necessary) Restate thesis (in different words) and provide a brief overview of main points

TIPS/Review Read the question carefully – use a highlighter to highlight important terms/concepts that need to be addressed Make sure to answer the question provided. Always plan your essay - Stay ‘on track’ and avoid tangents/retelling the story/plot summary Formal style - third person, no abbreviations, no contractions, formal diction, well developed paragraphs, etc. Have a clear, concise thesis statement Topic sentences – should reflect one of the premises of the thesis statement Transitions are very important. Make sure to transition between body paragraphs.

TIPS/Review Prepare some short and general quotes if requested for tests; however, specific detail will be sufficient for exam purposes. Provide contextual lead-in to quotes (no plop quotes) If using quotes do not say “It says”; instead, Lee writes…, Scout explains…, etc… Only use the title and author’s full name in the introduction and conclusion; use the author’s last name in the body; never refer to the author on a first-name basis. Avoid repeating the title continuously in the body paragraphs. Conventions count – take the time to edit for grammar, spelling, and punctuation when you are finished