1. Research Paper/Project
English II
Research Paper/Project

2. Parts of an Essay Introduction Body Paragraphs (3) Conclusion
Thesis Statement
Body Paragraphs (3)
Conclusion

3. You will be graded on… What you wrote about (content)
Grammar, spelling, etc.
Is your essay organized logically? Does it flow? Does it make sense? Did you answer the questions or prompt?
*** DO NOT use personal pronouns (unless otherwise directed)

4. Steps to Write an Essay
Brainstorm possible topics (we will be doing this together)
Decide which topic you are going to write about
Plan your essay
Decide how to start your essay
Quote, Statement, or Question
Write your introductory sentences (2-3)
Write your thesis
Write your body paragraphs
Write your conclusion

5. Citations
Works cited is a separate page!! You must include every single source that you use!!
Use MLA Citations
You must include in-text citations
Use a quote and then attribute the source in ( )
Or you can write: According to Shaun Tan in a recent interview, but you still have to attribute the source in ( )

6. Common Mistakes Not using present tense Not using active voice
Not using size 12 font that is not bold or italics
Extra spacing between paragraphs
Not using double-spacing
Telling instead of showing (USE EVIDENCE)

7. Common Mistakes (cont.)
Not supporting your statements with textual evidence
Using run-on sentences
Not naming the text; simply writing “the song” or “the book”.
Using poor grammar ---- know your contractions (it’s vs. its)and how to properly use commas, etc.

8. Writing Prompt/Topic
You will be given a prompt/topic that gives you directions for what to write and what form to use.
Ex: Write an article for your school newspaper on the effects of technology on everyday life.
Or: Write a letter explaining the meaning of responsibility as it relates to the high school experience
Make sure you read it closely (more than once) and underline any key words.
You should include those key words in your introduction
Use the information given to you (statistics, quotes, etc.)

9. Introduction
It is the first part someone will read----first impression
General overview of what your ENTIRE essay is about
Start off with a strong statement, quote, statistic, question, etc.
Add a transitional/connecting sentence
Next comes your thesis --- which re-states the prompt and your stance/opinion on the topic.
DO NOT write: “In this paper, I’m going to tell you about…”

10. Thesis Statement Outlines exactly what your essay is about
Should have 3 “parts” that correlate to each of your body paragraphs
EX: If your thesis say you are going to talk about X and Y, one of your body paragraphs should be about X and the other will discuss Y.
Is clear, concise, and does NOT provide information NOT covered in your essay
Use key words your underlined in the prompt
DO NOT write: “my essay is about…” or “my opinion” or “I think…”.

11. Body Paragraphs Discuss the ideas listed in your thesis
Roughly 6-10 sentences
You MUST provide support for your thoughts with details, descriptions, experiences, examples, etc. from the text.
Include transitional statements to connect paragraphs
Use words like however, therefore, although, nevertheless, etc.

12. Conclusion Similar to the introduction, but says it in a new way
Ties all your points from the body paragraphs together
Restates your thesis
Ends with a strong statement that leaves the reader thinking.
DO NOT write: “In conclusion…”