What you need to know to write essays successfully Essay Writing What you need to know to write essays successfully

Basic guidelines Be specific (don’t be afraid to use facts/details). Do NOT use the first person (I, we, me) Do NOT plagiarize. Use proper grammar and spelling. Use paragraphs to organize topics.

The Thesis A thesis is a declarative statement, 1-2 sentences at the beginning of the essay, that address the essay prompt. This should sum up your argument. Could include the who, what, when, where, why and topics for elaboration.

Practice Prompt: What was the impact of “Grand Theft Auto V” on students’ classroom performance? Thesis: When GTA5 hit the shelves in Sept. 2013, teachers saw a drop in student motivation, attentiveness and overall grade point average.

The Rule of Three 3 assertions (one for each paragraph) 3 facts This is the topic sentence for each paragraph. 3 facts Try and back up each assertion with 3 historical facts (hint: facts are not made up!) 3 analysis (one for each paragraph) For each paragraph, connect the historical facts to a cause/effect or relevance to the overall thesis of your essay.

Conclusion Restate your thesis and give your essay some larger or global perspective.

Basic essay outline ¶ THESIS ¶ First TOPIC ¶ Second TOPIC May also contain background information ¶ First TOPIC Topic sentence/assertion Supporting facts (3) Cause/effect/ analysis ¶ Second TOPIC ¶ Third TOPIC ¶ Conclusion Restate thesis Summarize cause/effects Large context

Practice Prompt: Explain why geography is the most useful class you will take in high school. Thesis: