Planning A Five-Paragraph Essay Part A= The Introduction Part B= The Main Body Paragraphs 3 paragraphs make the body paragraphs Part C= the Conclusion

The Five-Paragraph Essay This essay format (layout) is well named. It tells you exactly what you are to write: -an introduction paragraph #1 -three body paragraphs paragraph # 2 paragraph # 3 paragraph # 4 -a conclusion paragraph # 5

The Introduction Paragraph First, introduce your general topic. Next, state your point of view on the topic. Grab the attention of the reader. The future existence of polar bears on the planet is in serious danger as a result of global warming. Once your statement is made, you must never leave your topic. Every paragraph and every sentence in the rest of the essay must tie back to your idea/topic.

 The topic is: Polar bears are in danger.  The topic has clued in the reader.  Because polar bears are rare, the reader is probably hooked. He/She will want to keep reading and know how and why this is happening, and perhaps what can be done about it as well. Thesis Statement or Topic

The Main Body Paragraphs The three paragraphs that form the body of the essay should focus on a different aspect of the argument. The polar bear writer might want to devote individual paragraphs to ideas like: statistics about the decline in the polar bear population explain the reason(s) for the decline, such as the melting of the ice pack that supports the polar bear habitat examples from animal study groups on the polar bear quotations from environmental groups looking for solutions to solve the problem Each paragraph must include a topic sentence and supporting ideas on the main idea.

Transitions from Paragraph to Paragraph You shouldn’t jump from one paragraph to another without “building a bridge” from idea to idea. You can do this with phrases like:  another example of  since  even though  more importantly

The Concluding Paragraph The conclusion of a well written five-paragraph essay does not just restate information from the introduction. Instead, a good conclusion presents originality to wrapping-up. Maybe:  an explanation about the importance of the topic to the reader  an explanation of the debatable issues about the topic (for example, perhaps some scientists claim the danger to polar bears is exaggerated)  stating your own point of view on issues about polar bears. This is your chance to get the reader’s support. It is also your last chance to convince the reader of the value of your information.

The Beginning of a Five-Paragraph Essay Topic= What qualities do you look for in a friend? _________________________________________________________________ Title of essay: _________________________________________________________________ Introductory paragraph: _________________________________________________________________ Body paragraph 1: _________________________________________________________________ Body paragraph 2: _________________________________________________________________ Body paragraph 3: _________________________________________________________________ Conclusion: