ELD Benchmark Essay Information
Essay Introduction
Goals of Introduction Grab the reader’s attention Bridge Present sub- topics; forecast Present thesis; argument
Step #1 The Hook Begin with a quote, A statistic, A brief anecdote, Opposing view, An analogy, Relevant questions (not “Have you ever…”)
Step #2 The Bridge Connect hook to forecast Meaning for hook Why you chose it
Step #3 Forecast Preview subtopics Brief details Body paragraphs
Step #4 Thesis Thesis One sentence End of paragraph Constant referral Restate often
Example
Body Paragraphs
Goals of Body Paragraphs Introduce a subtopic Present supporting details Analyze details Refer to thesis Transition to next subtopic
Goal #1 Introduce subtopic Topic sentence Subject of paragraph Possible transition from previous paragraph
Goal #2 Present Details Lead-in and set-up data Write author/title in sentence Use data cards Paraphrase Summary Direct quote Citations
Goal #3 Analyze details and refer back to thesis Commentary or analysis Connects detail (quotes/data) to thesis Educated opinion
Goal #4 Transition/Conclusion Repeat details and your analysis as needed Transition to next paragraph Or conclude paragraph
Sample Body Paragaph Format Topic Sentence Lead-in/Set-up then data (citation) Student Analysis Lead-in/Set-up then data (citation) Student Analysis Closing Sentence
Conclusion Paragraphs
Goals of Conclusion Paragraph Paraphrase or restate thesis Review or summarize main points Make a final impression on reader
Goal # 1 Thesis Transition from previous paragraph Do not use “In conclusion…” Stress importance of thesis Use different words
Goal # 2 Review Main Points Summarize body paragraphs Brief, a few sentences Don’t repeat introduction
Goal # 3 Final Thoughts Echo the introduction (anecdote) Challenge reader Call to action Look to the future Pose questions