Essay Writing 101 By Mrs. Robinson

Essays prove a point or opinion about something -There is a lesson in every essay

Types of Essays History Personal – Uses “I” or first person to express idea or share personal experience Analysis – Analyzes and explains contents within – Literature based Research – Explains and involves the writer going beyond for information

Other types Persuasive – Writer tries to persuade reader of an opinion Comparison/Contrast – Shows similarities and differences of two things

Paragraphing Written in paragraphs to make the work structurally stronger – Format can be persuasive Paragraphs – Allow the reader to breathe – Make the points stronger – Draw attention to the thesis – Work as a map for the reader – Work like a little essay They have topic sentences (thesis) and support sentences (like point paragraphs)

An Essay Should NOT Be one block paragraph Be written in past tense unless it’s a personal or history essay – Literature based essays are all in present Use “I” unless it’s personal – This takes away from the believability Say “in this essay,” “the point is,” first, second, third, “in conclusion,” or anything super obvious Use “you” – Maintain distance from reader

Parts of The Essay Introduction Point paragraphs – In literature quotes and examples from text are proof and support – Support must then be explained in the essay writer’s own words Conclusion

Introduction First line is the hook line – Address the question or topic – Should include author and title if dealing with literature Should paint a picture for reader – Often uses personal narrative or anecdote to create interest Allow the reader to get caught in the essay Topic should come alive and interest the reader

Intro continued By the end of intro, topic should be clear – Define if research or mature/selective topic Should end in thesis – Thesis- statement of one sentence outlining rest of essay and point to be made – EX: Spurlock proves the negative effects of the fast food industry through his persuasive techniques of imagery, logos, and pathos. Chopin paints a negative picture of the American South through her use of racism, sexism, and ignorance.

Point Paragraphs and Support Essay is only as strong as support and proof Support can include examples, quotations, or research (proof) – All support if used from literature or research must be parenthetically documented with a works cited page Support must be factual and based on truth Each point should have its own paragraph and be mentioned in the thesis – This draws attention to support – Use transitions to start a new paragraph Also, however, in addition, on the other hand, in the same way, therefore, as a result, consequently Transition help to connect the entire essay and give smooth readability

Points continued Each point should then be explained by the essay writer for understanding – This is where the writer convinces the reader – Don’t say “I believe” or “I feel”- simply state it as fact EX: I feel Spurlock’s use of imagery proves obesity is everywhere in America. By just deleting the first two words, the statement has power and believability – Explanations drive the points home and make the point obvious for the reader

Conclusion- The Final Paragraph Should begin with the thesis to remind the reader – Restate the thesis in different wording- but say the same thing This is last opportunity to remind the reader of the strong points- mention them Use emotion in the conclusion to grab the reader Finish on a personal note or with a strong example or statement to leave a lasting impression Conclusion should leave the reader thinking about the topic