Basic Essay Writing A Quick Review

The Essay Essays are a form of formal writing with a specific purpose Common Core Argument (Persuasive/Interpretive) Informative/Explanatory Narrative

Three Basic Criteria Demonstration of Understanding Organization/Structure Clarity (grammar, syntax, and meaning)

Demonstration of Understanding Answer the question clearly and concisely Demonstrate an insightful understanding of the subject matter Reach beyond superficial meaning; demonstrate originality and insight Include specific, convincing support and examples to reinforce and “prove” your commentary

Organization Hamburgers, sandwiches, bookends, an Oreo Nearly every essay should include: An introduction A body A conclusion Hamburgers, sandwiches, bookends, an Oreo

The Introduction Begins with a hook/grabber to engage the reader Clearly addresses all aspects of the prompt Provides necessary context Includes a formal thesis statement States position Includes reasons

The Body One or more paragraphs of at least five sentences each Topic sentence that relates directly to reasons in the thesis Commentary and supporting details (evidence) at approximately a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio Argument has a logical flow Concluding or transitional sentence at the end of each paragraph

The Conclusion Restates (but does not literally repeat) the main ideas in the thesis Summarizes the conclusions reached by the paper May close with a comment on universal truth Does not include new information

Clarity Meaning should be clear (it’s an inherent quality of good communication) When possible, draft and revise your writing Consider audience Grammar errors can obscure meaning and mar communication – they should be avoided whenever possible

Sample Outline Prompt: What do you want to be when you grow up? Thesis: When I’m finished with school, I plan to become a park ranger because I enjoy spending time outdoors and interacting with wildlife. TS #1: Ever since I was young, I’ve enjoyed camping and hiking in the wilderness. TS #2: I’m always amazed at the wide variety of wildlife I find when I’m spending time outdoors.

Coarse Guidelines Welcome! To another grate year in english. This year, we will work on you’re reading and writting. We will study potry, storys, and books. I accept great things from you, you will due well if you study you’re grammer, if not, essay scores will pwn ur face! LOL!!! I have exceptions for the quality of your wiriting, meat them.

To: mfalk@rowland.k12.ca.us From: xxxninjagangstalol@hotmail.com Yo mr faulk can you give me sum extra time to compleate my esay it was realy hard to rite & i was up all nite workin on it please please please let me turn it in late. Piece out,