The Writing Process

5 Paragraph Essay  A 5 part essay that proves an assertion (that’s called the central idea)  Uses a three point basis (those three points are called your thesis points)  That’s a big word-what’s an assertion?  An assertion argues a point that can be disputed. This is different than stating a fact or making a statement.

Assertion or Fact?  Class sizes at EHS have grown larger over the past five years due to more housing developments in the town.  Larger class sizes at EHS compromise the quality of student/teacher interaction and overall performance.

Assertion or Fact?  Students who find part time jobs learn valuable life skills like cooperation and leadership.  Students involved in after school sports score higher on standardized tests than non-athletes.

Part 1: Intro Paragraph Made up of three parts: 1. Lead-In: A thought provoking, catchy sentence that captures the reader’s attention and introduces the ideas in the paper. Ex: Despite heated debate over the topic, over 20% of students ages believe that cell phones in school would promote academic achievement.

2. Central Idea  Central Idea: The point you would like to prove by the end of the paper. Should be something that a person could argue about. Example: The most admirable character of the story is George.

3. Thesis Statement  3. Thesis Statement : The way you will prove your central idea, the proof. Composed of three specific points. Example: Annie demonstrates persistence by standing by her children, creatively planning a business, and expanding the enterprise over time.

Thesis Statement  If the central idea is WHAT you are going to prove, the thesis is HOW you are going to prove it.  The thesis provides the evidence that proves your central idea.  Consists of 3 parts: Example: Harry is the most admirable character because of his natural abilities, his devotion to friends, and his passion to defeat evil.

Part 2: Body Paragraph  There will be 3 thesis points in your introduction. Therefore, you will have 3 different body paragraphs, one for each thesis point.  Body Paragraph consists of a topic sentence that states which part of the thesis statement the paragraph will cover.  Consists of at least 5 sentences of supporting details, examples or explanations.  Ends with a restatement of the central idea.

Part 3: Conclusion  Should include a restatement of your central idea in slightly different words.  Includes a restatement of your thesis in slightly different words.  Answers the “so what?” question. Provides insight on what we can learn about life, the world, ourselves from the topics in your paper.