The 5-Paragraph Essay Jazzed Up

5 Paragraph Essay Structure INTRO Main Idea #1 Main Idea #2 Main Idea #3 PARAGRAPH #2 Main Idea 1 Spec. Det. 1 Spec. Det. 2 Spec. Det. 3 PARAGRAPH #3 BODY Main Idea 2 Spec. Det. 1 Spec. Det. 2 Spec. Det. 3 PARAGRAPH #4 Main Idea 3 Spec. Det. 1 Spec. Det. 2 Spec. Det. 3 PARAGRAPH #5 CONCL Main Idea #1 Main Idea #2 Main Idea #3

Introduction All writing should include an introduction stating the main idea of the piece. A good hook is necessary to capture the reader’s attention. Example: (subject = security cameras) Have you ever felt like your privacy was being invaded? A thesis statement should be included at the beginning or end of the introductory paragraph.

Capture the Reader’s Attention Hooks Capture the Reader’s Attention 1. Open with an unusual detail (something that will surprise the reader about your subject) Open with a strong statement: Wearing designer jeans will make you feel like a rock star. Open with a quotation: Ms. Stafford once said, “Watching good-looking men wash their cars will help you live a long and fulfilling life.” Open with an anecdote: a short and amusing story. It is straight to the point.

Hooks…cont Open with a statistic or fact: 4 out of 7 teens think Justin Bieber’s bangs look ridiculous. Note: Make sure you are able to support these figures with research you’ve collected (& cited!) Open with a question: Did you know that eating a lot of cheese makes your feet stink? Open with an Exaggeration or Outrageous Statement: I was going to die if Ms. Stafford did not give us a study guide! I love learning.

Body The meat of the essay. Contains everything that you want to say. It should be an in depth description of your 3 main ideas. Transition words are needed to keep the paper flowing and to prevent ideas from coming to an abrupt stop. Examples: for instance, in contrast, meanwhile, simultaneously, in the forefront, analogous to, furthermore, accordingly, and in the mean time

Conclusion A conclusion statement should summarize what you just wrote about and mention each of your main ideas. The clincher is the final thought that should leave a lasting impression. You can finish off with a quote, anecdote, or anything with a purpose.

Narrative Writing Narrative writing is fictional (fake). Even if the story could possibly happen, if it’s made up, it is a narrative. Most effective when many details are incorporated to make the story come alive (5 senses).

Descriptive Writing Descriptive writing describes a person, place, or thing. Vivid sensory & memory details should be used to bring your subject to life. You should write from a position of authority; know your subject well! Example: The nice and crisp taste of the fluffy white bread goes wonderfully with the creamy peanut butter and sweet, grape jelly.

Expository Writing Informs readers about a meaningful and interesting subject. It should be objective (no personal bias). Good topics include: how to, the causes of, kinds of, or the definition of, etc. Example: How to make a really tasty peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Persuasive Writing Convinces readers to think the same way an author does toward a certain subject. Include reasonable and thoughtful arguments to support your position. Example: Grape jelly should be used to make a proper PB&J sandwich. It is far superior for several reasons, one being the lack of seeds.