Elements of an Essay

Five Paragraph Essay Introduction 3 Body Paragraphs Conclusion

Introduction The introduction is intended to lead the reader into the topic and clarify what the essay will specifically deal with. The first paragraph of the essay NEVER say “I am going to talk about . . . ” The introduction should have a minimum of five sentences. Should include the author and title of the work if writing about literature Should end with your thesis statement

Attention Grabber An “attention getter” sentence does exactly what it says – it makes the reader feel an emotion (curious, happy, sad, etc.) and catches the reader’s attention. Should be the first sentence of the introduction Possible options: A question An interesting fact or statement A relevant quote

Supporting Statements Supporting sentences that give the reader an idea about your topic. Located between the attention grabber and the thesis statement.

Thesis Statement States the main idea of the essay. Must include what you are trying to prove to the reader. Must include your three pieces of evidence.

Body Body paragraphs deal with the ideas that support the thesis statement. Each main idea should be presented in a separate paragraph. Should begin with a topic sentence Use explanations, ideas, definitions, and examples to support the main idea of each body paragraph Each body paragraph should have a minimum of five clear sentences.

Topic Sentence States the main idea of the paragraph. Each body paragraph must have a topic sentence which reflects your thesis statement.

Transition Words Words used to connect one idea to the next. Each body paragraph should begin with a transition word. Examples: Above all, Actually, First, Second, Third, Last, Furthermore, Consequently, Next, On the other hand Lists of transition words can be found online.

Body Paragraph Concluding Sentence Should restate or reinforce your topic sentences, but should not be written in the exact same way. Should close the current topic and prepare the reader for the next paragraph.

Conclusion The conclusion brings the reader back to the purpose of the essay. Draws all the points together Makes a final comment on the topic. NEVER include “I just wrote about . . . ” Should include a restatement of the thesis (It is often easiest to begin the conclusion with this restatement.)

Conclusion Final Thought Similar to the attention grabber because it should have an effect on the reader. You want to leave the reader thinking.

Things to Avoid in Your Essay Do not use first or second person pronouns in a literary essay. Do not use contractions except for dialogue. Do not use slang terms except for dialogue.