Basics of Essay Writing Mrs. Blake

Warmup! Before we begin taking notes… Write the definition of SUMMARIZE and PARAPHRASE

Every good essay starts with an introduction! Introduction: the beginning paragraph (4-5 sentences) of an essay, which states the topic, gets the reader interested, states the thesis and your main points Thesis: a statement that gives an idea that is discussed and/or proved in the essay (For example: Nike shoes are the best for athletes)

How to write a GREAT paragraph 1. Topic Sentence- this sentence sets up what your paragraph will discuss and gives the main idea 2. Supporting Detail Sentence- a sentence that gives an example, reason or fact that convinces the reader to believe your main idea (in your topic sentence) 3. Supporting Detail #2- give another supporting detail 4. Supporting Detail #3- give another supporting detail 5. Concluding Sentence- this sentence should wrap up your paragraph and summarize your final thought. TIP: The easiest way is to write a concluding sentence is to paraphrase (change the wording slightly) of your topic sentence.

What does this look like? Nike are the best shoes for athletes (topic sentence). Nike shoes have padded soles which provide comfort for runners who run long distances such as a marathon (supporting detail sentence). 80% of athletes prefer to wear Nike shoes which shows how popular they are (supporting detail sentence). For example, Usain Bolt has worn them in every race he has competed in (supporting detail sentence). The top running shoes that athletes should purchase are without a doubt, Nike shoes (concluding sentence).

Every good essay ends with a CONCLUSION! Conclusion: the final paragraph of your essay that summarizes your main points Many students get stuck on this one…so what can you do? Tips when you need help on a conclusion: Paraphrase your thesis Summarize and rephrase your main points Give a reflection- what’s your opinion?? Give a final thought for your reader/wrap up the essay- What do you want to leave your readers thinking about! If you can’t think of something, rewrite your thesis here!

More Tips! Using transition words between your sentences and paragraphs (Examples: Firstly, Secondly, In Conclusion, To Start Off With, In addition, Also, Another example) Proofread everything!! Read over your essay at least two times and try to find any spelling or grammar errors you may have made and get a peer or teacher to proofread for you Give your essay a creative title ( For example, instead of My Persuasive Essay…you could say “Nike Shoes Top the Charts”) If you feel like you’re say the same word a lot, look up the word in a thesaurus and they will give you a list of words (synonyms) with the similar meaning that you could use instead to spice up your paper!

Remember….