First Things First  Read the prompt

Embrace the Topic

After CAREFULLY Reading the Prompt– ask yourself… 1.Do I think about this subject in the same way as the writer/ speaker?– AGREE 2.Do I think the writer/ speaker is totally wrong?– DISAGREE

Reading the Prompt…  Read, think, read, think  Take some time to decide your position—you may not choose the side that first appeals to you  Take some time to plan your support… Brainstorm/Outline  Be sure to consider different resources to support your argument:  English Literature  History  Current Events  Personal Experience  Pop Culture

Take a Stand  Once this question is answered…  R EMEMBER YOUR AUDIENCE  T HINK THROUGH YOUR ARGUMENT  W HAT ARE POSSIBLE OBJECTIONS Choose your side!

Reason vs. Evidence  Reasons are logical arguments that support your position  Evidence is a specific example to support your reason

What SAT Readers Want  NEAT HANDWRITING  PARAGRAPH INDENTATIONS  There are 45 Lines on that Essay Page… FILL THEM ALL IN!!!  Be sure to cite specific examples… the SAT Readers LOVE examples

Writing Essentials  Read the Prompt and Ignore the Quote – they are trying to mess with your head. Do not let them win!  Only if you’re stuck for developing the conclusion will you need the quote  Answer the Question. Yes, the question they are asking. NOTHING BUT THE QUESTION.  Pick a Side and Stick To It  Use a 4 Paragraph Structure – Brainstorm your top 3 ideas and pick the strongest 2  Each body paragraph should be a minimum of 7 sentences  Present the evidence that best supports your point with CLARITY.

Classical Argumentative Scheme  Part 1: Introductory Paragraph -catch interest -present the issue or topic with concrete image or anecdote -provide any relevant background information -state THESIS (claim – last sentence of 1 st paragraph)

Classical Argumentative Scheme Con’t.  Part 2: Confirmation Paragraphs – There will be TWO -the most important and longest section of the argument -provides the reasons and the evidence of a writer’s claim -shows the logical development of the argument -should include both logical reasons and evidence but also emotional appeals to human needs or values -Again, be sure to vary your examples

Classical Argumentative Scheme Con’t.  Part 4: Concluding Paragraph -wrap up the argument -restate the claim -provide a new appeal to needs or values -enrich with additional commentary -voice a final plea for readers to take action or to change thinking -refrain from repeating any information

Support Must Defend Position  Logical reasons, examples, facts and details  Not biased on unsubstantiated opinions  Evidence must be solid, rational and believable  Be respectful of opposing viewpoints and diverse (when possible)

Quick Summary  Remember your audience  Neatness counts  Indent your paragraphs  Be brilliant in your first paragraph  Use Specific Examples  Use an English Lit example only Once  Budget your time – you only have 25 minutes

By the way…  ANSWER THE PROMPT WITH CLARITY

Sample Essay Question  Prompt: “A little inaccuracy saves a world of explanation.” C.E.Ayers  Assignment: Is it always essential to tell the truth, or are there circumstances in which it is better to lie? Plan your response, and then write an essay to explain your views on this issue. Be sure to support your position with specific points and examples. (You may use personal examples or examples from your reading, observations, or, knowledge of subjects such as history, literature, science.)

Sample Essay Question  Prompt: “The price of greatness is responsibility.” Winston Churchill  Assignment: Do we expect too much from our public figures? Plan your response, and then write an essay to explain your views on this issue. Be sure to support your position with specific points and examples. (You may use personal examples or examples from your reading, observations, or, knowledge of subjects such as history, literature, science.)