1. Introduction
a. Broad general statement on the topic (2-3
sentences which introduce the subject).
b. Thesis: Your response to the prompt. The
argument that will control the entire essay.
What is it that you are trying to persuade the
reader to believe? The thesis must:
i. fully address every aspect of the question.
ii. take a position with regard to the question
(opinion).
iii. provide organizational categories for
analysis (P.O.A.).
2. Body Paragraph
a. Topic Sentence: The main point of the paragraph
b. Evidence: Relevant historical facts that
you will use to support the topic sentence,
and the thesis, explained in detail.
i. fact
ii. fact
iii. fact
iv. fact
c. Interpretation/Commentary/Analysis: What
do these facts mean in relation to the topic
sentence, and, then in relation to the thesis.
Explain in detail – the how and the why
– give reasons for reasons.
d . Transition sentence: Moves the essay to
the next major topic sentence in the essay.
3. Body Paragraph
a. Topic Sentence
b. Evidence
c. Interpretation/Commentary/Analysis
d . Transition Sentence
4. Body Paragraph
a. Topic Sentence
b. Evidence
c. Interpretation/Commentary/Analysis
D . Transition Sentence
5. Concluding Paragraph
a. Topic Sentence – Begins with a restatement
of the thesis. Use any wording other than, “In
conclusion,” “I conclude,”
or “It can be concluded that.” An
acceptable way to begin the concluding paragraph
is to say, “ As a result of…”
b. Summary of the main points of each of the
body paragraphs (One or two sentences for each
paragraph). The conclusion must:
i. reinforce the thesis.
ii. summate the main points of the body paragraphs
iii. address the “So what?”.
c. End the conclusion with a clincher sentence
that will leave the reader wanting more. “It
can be proven that …”
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