Review of Essay Structure

What is an Essay? The main purpose of any essay is to discuss, persuade, describe, explain, interpret or analyze a particular topic.

Essay Structure An essay has three main parts: An introduction (introductory paragraph) A body (at least one, but usually more paragraphs) A conclusion (concluding paragraph)

Essay Structure

The Introduction An introductory paragraph has 2 parts: General statement Introduce the general topic of the essay. Capture the reader’s interest. Thesis statement States the specific topic. May list subtopics or subdivisions. May indicate the pattern of organization. Is normally the last sentence in the introductory paragraph.

Body Paragraphs The body paragraphs are used to: Develop your topic. Prove your points. The body paragraph should have: Some sort of pattern (chronological order or comparison/contrast, or a combination of both) A logical division of ideas (division into subtopics and discussion of these subtopics in separate paragraphs)

The Conclusion The conclusion is the final paragraph in an essay. It has three purposes: It signals the end of the essay. It reminds the reader of your main points. You can do this in two ways: Summarize your subtopics. Paraphrase your thesis. It leaves the reader with your final thoughts on the topic.

Essay Outlining A formal outline has a system such as the following: Roman numerals I,II, and III for the major sections of an essay (introduction, body, conclusion) Capital letters A,B,C and so on label the body paragraphs. Numerals 1,2,3 and so on number the subpoints in each paragraph. Small letters a,b,c label specific supporting details.

Essay Outlining (2)

Note: In writing an argumentative essay, you must use inductive reasoning so write the THESIS in the body instead of the introduction. Use the B.C.I pattern in writing your essay, meaning, compose first the body, then make your conclusion, and think how you will make an introduction that will cover significantly your composition. –Mr. Dacillo conclusion. (