The Five-Paragraph Essay (pp. 338-340) Academic Writing The Five-Paragraph Essay (pp. 338-340)

The Five-Paragraph Essay

Introductory Paragraph Lead in sentences Get your reader interested Examples: brief story, some background information, quote, question/s Thesis statement The last sentence of the introductory paragraph Tells the reader exactly what to expect

Body Paragraphs Follow the organizational plan you have selected, which will be evident in your thesis About 3 body paragraphs (2 to 4 body paragraphs for a short essay) Each body paragraph should start with a topic sentence followed by details that support the topic sentence Use numerous specific details Use transition words (additionally, furthermore, then, and therfore) throughout

Concluding Paragraph Draws your paper to a close Typically the shortest paragraph (two to three sentences in a short essay) Restating the main idea (thesis statement) is useful To complete, point out the effects, importance, or benefits of your topic

The Five-Paragraph Essay

Proofread and Edit! Grammar Punctuation Effective sentences Main idea Logic Organization Supporting details

Tips The first two paragraphs should be especially error-free (first impression) Double check thesis statement and topic sentences to make sure they are error-free

Common Grammar Errors Comma Splices Fragments Check each comma and decide if it needs a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS) Fragments Read from the bottom to the top (last sentence first) and check that each sentence has a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought

Common Grammar Errors Pronoun Agreement Commonly Confused Words Check for they, their, and them and make sure they refer to plural nouns Commonly Confused Words Words that sound similar but are spelled differently (their/there/they’re, its/it’s, then/than)

How to Write a Title 1. The first letter of the first and last words should be capitalized. 2. Capitalize the first letter of all words except articles, coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS), and prepositions unless they are the first or last words in the title. 3. Do not put a period at the end of a title.

References Schmid Bellas, E., & Poland, P. (2011). Thinking through the test: A study guide for the Florida College Basic Skills Exit Tests: Reading and writing, with answer key. (Fourth ed.). Boston, MA: Longman/Pearson Education, Inc. DOI: www.pearsonhighered.com