English 1201 How to Write An Essay Essay

English 1201 How to Write An Essay

Essay Structure

Introduction The top bun of the hamburger • Restate the question • Introduce the name and author of the novel • If theme is required it must be provided • Use the writing prompt to help write a full thematic statement • Include thesis statement (preview supporting details or premises) at the end.

Body Paragraphs The hamburger meat and toppings • Be SPECIFIC - avoid plot summary • EXPLAIN, rather than RE-TELLING THE STORY • Use direct references or specific examples to support what you are arguing • Keep. It. Simple. = CLARITY

Body Paragraphs • Topic sentences that are straightforward answer the question; they should relate back to a premise in thesis statement • Specific detail from the novel to support topic: • Provide contextual lead-in if using a direct quote (Who is speaking? To whom? Where does it occur in the plot? ) • Specific example or direct quote • Explanation of how the example supports the topic sentence • Link to theme if required • Clincher sentences which show WHY you are using the example and its treatment (to develop theme, etc. )

Conclusion The bottom bun of the hamburger • Restate the title (and theme if necessary) • Restate thesis (in different words) and provide a brief overview of main points

TIPS/Review • Read the question carefully – use a highlighter to highlight important terms/concepts that need to be addressed • Make sure to answer the question provided. • Always plan your essay - Stay ‘on track’ and avoid tangents/retelling the story/plot summary • Formal style - third person, no abbreviations, no contractions, formal diction, well developed paragraphs, etc. • Have a clear, concise thesis statement • Topic sentences – should reflect one of the premises of thesis statement • Transitions are very important. Make sure to transition between body paragraphs.

TIPS/Review • Prepare some short and general quotes if requested for tests; however, specific detail will be sufficient for exam purposes. • Provide contextual lead-in to quotes (no plop quotes) • If using quotes do not say “It says”; instead, Lee writes…, Scout explains…, etc… • Only use the title and author’s full name in the introduction and conclusion; use the author’s last name in the body; never refer to the author on a first-name basis. • Avoid repeating the title continuously in the body paragraphs. • Conventions count – take the time to edit for grammar, spelling, and punctuation when you are finished