How towrite an Essay

Jeni Mawter

www.jenimawter.com

Stuff you wished

your teacher

told you!

Everyone can write

an essay

…when they know how!

Stop procrastinating!

Do not start your essay with the introduction

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Do not work forwards

Start by analysing

‘The Question’http://bentyogastudio.com/wp-content/uploads/question_marks2.jpg

• What is it asking?

• Underline key words

• Keep the written question in front of you at

all times

• Keep referring back to the question

• Repeat the key words throughout the essay

Different Types of Essay Questions

Narrative

Tells a story. Uses experiences of self and others, research, memories etc. The story will have a point to it. First person point of view is more personal and intimate.

Descriptive

A person, place or thing is described in vivid detail by using colourful or descriptive language, making interesting observations and/or comparisons and appealing to all the senses.

Different Types of Essay Questions

Persuasive

This essay is written to convince a reader to accept your point of view. It is biased and may or may not consider opposing views. It is supported with evidence.

Cause and Effect

This essay examines relationships between a cause and effect.

Different Types of Essay Questions

Compare and Contrast

Comparing shows how things are alike. Contrasting shows how they are different.

Define

Provides the meaning of the word, concept or topic to be discussed.

Evaluate

Giving a judgement on the worth, or value, of something based on evidence.

Work backwards!

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Plan your answer before you write

It’s impossible to write an introduction

if you don’t know

your conclusion!

Plan your answer before you write

- Work out your key points.

- Place in order of priority.

- Work out points that can be linked.

- Ensure your key points relate to the

question.

- Go back and check!

Form your conclusions

Write your introduction

Opening sentence should refer to the essay question.

Following sentences should outline key points to be discussed.

Write the body of your essay- In order of priority, discuss each key point.

- Allow one point per paragraph (maybe two if

there’s a link).

- Keep referring back to the essay question.

- Support your argument with evidence.

- Don’t waffle. Make your point then move on.

 

See if you can come up with an original thought, also called critical

thinking, or critical evaluation.

NOW, write your conclusion!The conclusion will be a brief summary of your arguments or key points in order of priority, always making reference to the question.

Check over your essay

- Make sure you’ve answered the question.

- Read your work out loud.

- Awkward sentences or repetition need re-

writing or deleting.

- Proofread and don’t rely only on Spellcheck.

• Choose a topic you care about.

• Narrow down the topic so there’s less research to do.

• Get a copy of the Marking Criteria. Make sure you’ve met the criteria.

How to write an Essay

by Jeni Mawter

www.jenimawter.com