Chapter two writing tips Conclusion

A conclusion is a formal ending of a composition A conclusion is a formal ending of a composition. However, not all compositions need a conclusion. For example, a process of description could end quite naturally with the last step in the process. More important than the presence or absence of a formal ending is a sense of completeness: this could be achieved when the reader feels that everything necessary has been written in the composition.

Length of conclusions Sometimes a single sentence is enough, but in other occasions a writer needs to write a paragraph. The length of the conclusion should balance the length of the introduction, and it should never be longer than the body of the composition. The importance of conclusions Conclusions are as important as introductions, because it is the last part the readers see. This can strongly influence the readers’ impression of the entire composition. Thus, conclusions should be given enough time during composition exams.

Ways of writing conclusions There are a number of ways to write a strong, meaningful conclusion which leaves the reader with a positive impression: - A composition that discusses a problem can end with a solution to the problem with a warning about possible consequences if action is not taken. - Many compositions which analyze past or present developments can be ended with a look to the future. - Compositions which compare or contrast two systems, procedures, or things can end concluded with a logical deduction of which one is better than the other. - Other compositions can be ended with a recommendation to the reader to follow a certain kind of action

Conclusions: What NOT to Do You can help to strengthen your conclusion by avoiding several weaknesses: - Don’t introduce a new idea into the conclusion. Ideas should be discussed in the body. - Avoid concluding with a simple summary of main ideas. Summaries are more appropriate for longer pieces of writings, such as reports. - Avoid weak endings such as “This composition has discussed some information about…” - Never use “finally” to introduce a conclusion. The use of “finally” should be restricted to the body of the composition.

Exercise Study carefully the two paragraphs below, which are the body of a composition. Then, write appropriate introductory and concluding paragraphs for it. TV is a good teacher for everyone. There are several programs for preschool children, for example Sesame Street. This is a well-organized program that teaches children to count and to say the alphabet. It also has interesting characters like Bert and Ernie that tell stories and sing songs. Also, TV has programs for students. When I was a high school student, there were many kinds of learning programs, like foreign language and math education programs. These programs help students with their studies. Furthermore, there are some programs for adults about how to garden, such as ABC Gardening. There is another interesting show that teaches adults how to make delicious dishes, how to fix things around the house and so on. You may watch these programs in the morning, especially the cooking shows. While shows that teach people about the garden and fixing things at home can be followed at weekends.

(Background information)TV is a device which is normally used for entertaining people in their free times. (thesis statement)However, TV has always been a medium for teaching people different things. TV is a good teacher for everyone. There are several programs for preschool children, for example Sesame Street. This is a well-organized program that teaches children to count and to say the alphabet. It also has interesting characters like Bert and Ernie that tell stories and sing songs. Also, TV has programs for students. When I was a high school student, there were many kinds of learning programs, like foreign language and math education programs. These programs help students with their studies. Furthermore, there are some programs for adults about how to garden, such as ABC Gardening. There is another interesting show that teaches adults how to make delicious dishes, how to fix things around the house and so on. You may watch these programs in the morning, especially the cooking shows. While shows that teach people about the garden and fixing things at home can be followed at weekends. At present, TV teaches people different new skills. Husbands can have more efficient roles at home, and children can both enjoy themselves and learn while watching TV. In the future, we might see further functions for TV that can make our lives easier.