1. Basic Essay Writing
A Quick Review

2. The Essay Essays are a form of formal writing with a specific purpose
Common Core
Argument (Persuasive/Interpretive)
Informative/Explanatory
Narrative

3. Three Basic Criteria Demonstration of Understanding
Organization/Structure
Clarity (grammar, syntax, and meaning)

4. Demonstration of Understanding
Answer the question clearly and concisely
Demonstrate an insightful understanding of the subject matter
Reach beyond superficial meaning; demonstrate originality and insight
Include specific, convincing support and examples to reinforce and “prove” your commentary

5. Organization Hamburgers, sandwiches, bookends, an Oreo
Nearly every essay should include:
An introduction
A body
A conclusion
Hamburgers, sandwiches, bookends, an Oreo

6. The Introduction Begins with a hook/grabber to engage the reader
Clearly addresses all aspects of the prompt
Provides necessary context
Includes a formal thesis statement
States position
Includes reasons

7. The Body One or more paragraphs of at least five sentences each
Topic sentence that relates directly to reasons in the thesis
Commentary and supporting details (evidence) at approximately a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio
Argument has a logical flow
Concluding or transitional sentence at the end of each paragraph

8. The Conclusion
Restates (but does not literally repeat) the main ideas in the thesis
Summarizes the conclusions reached by the paper
May close with a comment on universal truth
Does not include new information

9. Clarity
Meaning should be clear (it’s an inherent quality of good communication)
When possible, draft and revise your writing
Consider audience
Grammar errors can obscure meaning and mar communication – they should be avoided whenever possible

10. Sample Outline Prompt: What do you want to be when you grow up?
Thesis: When I’m finished with school, I plan to become a park ranger because I enjoy spending time outdoors and interacting with wildlife.
TS #1: Ever since I was young, I’ve enjoyed camping and hiking in the wilderness.
TS #2: I’m always amazed at the wide variety of wildlife I find when I’m spending time outdoors.

11. Coarse Guidelines
Welcome! To another grate year in english. This year, we will work on you’re reading and writting. We will study potry, storys, and books. I accept great things from you, you will due well if you study you’re grammer, if not, essay scores will pwn ur face! LOL!!!
I have exceptions for the quality of your wiriting, meat them.

12. To: mfalk@rowland.k12.ca.us
From:
Yo mr faulk can you give me sum extra time to compleate my esay it was realy hard to rite & i was up all nite workin on it please please please let me turn it in late. Piece out,