Essay-Writing Guidelines

1. Essay-Writing Guidelines English- Ms. Fitzgerald

2. Thesis Statement • The last sentence of the introduction paragraph. • A single sentence that summarizes what you are proving in the essay.

3. Topic Sentence • The first sentence of each body paragraph. • A single sentence that summarizes the main idea of the body paragraph.

4. Main Idea • The point you are proving in a body paragraph. • Each body paragraph should have one main idea.

5. Supporting Detail • A specific example or quotation that proves the main idea of a body paragraph. • Each body paragraph should have 2-3 supporting details.

6. Transition • A word or phrase that links parts of the essay. (Ex: in addition, furthermore, although) • Use transitions: • To begin your 2nd and 3rd body paragraph • To link supporting details

7. A Thesis-Based Essay Has: • Introduction Paragraph with thesis statement • Body Paragraphs (TIDE format) • Topic sentence • Supporting details and quotations • Closing sentence • Transitions between paragraphs and ideas • Closing Paragraph

8. Writing an Introduction Paragraph • Begin with a general statement (Ex: Describe a theme of the book). • State the title and author of the book. • Briefly explain what the book is about. • Describe the 3 main ideas you will discuss in the essay. • End with the thesis statement.

9. Sample Introduction Paragraph Begin with a general statement (Ex: Describe a theme of the book). The American Dream is the idea that people can be rich and successful if they work hard. State the title and author of the book. In her play A Raisin in the Sun, Lorraine Hansberry examines what happens when people struggle achieve the American Dream. Briefly explain what the book is about. The play tells the story of the Youngers, a black family in 1950’s Chicago who fight to hold on to their dreams in the face of racism and financial hardship. Describe the 3 main ideas you will discuss in the essay. Walter Younger is fixated on getting money to buy a liquor store so he can achieve his dream of earning a fortune. However, Mama repeatedly stresses to her children that family is more important than money. Ultimately, when they lose the insurance check, the entire family realizes that being united is more important than being rich. End with the thesis statement. A Raisin in the Sun shows that although people yearn to attain the American Dream through financial success, true hope for the future cannot be found in money, but in solidarity as a family.

10. Writing a Body Paragraph You are already an expert on writing body paragraphs! Use TIDE format. • Topic sentence that states the main idea. Note: Use transitions to start the 2nd and 3rd topic sentence. • Supporting details and quotation. • Transitions between the supporting details. • Closing sentence that re-states the main idea.

11. Writing a Closing Paragraph • Re-state the thesis statement in new words. • Re-state each of the three main ideas in new words (3 separate sentences). • End with a general statement (Ex: Connect the essay to a theme).

12. Sample Closing Paragraph Re-state the thesis statement in new words. A Raisin in the Sun emphasizes that even when people cannot achieve financial success, they can still find strength and happiness in their families. Re-state each of the three main ideas in new words (3 separate sentences). Walter is completely wrapped up in the idea that having money for his business will bring him happiness. However, Mama reminds him that money is not as important as having a happy family. When they lose their money, the characters realize their family bond is more valuable than anything money can buy. End with a general statement (Ex: Connect the essay to a theme). The American Dream may be a source of disappointment, but the human spirit has the power to withstand any obstacle.