Write Fast!

Write Fast! Demystifying The 5 Paragraph Essay

You know the scene. Youre asked to write an essay on a topic, book, event, etc. Suddenly your mind goes blank, your palms start sweating, and you stare blankly at the screen.What Do You Do?

The 5 Paragraph EssayContrary to what you might think, writing an essay is not that difficult once you master the steps involved.Today were going to learn how to organize your thoughts, identify main points, create a thesis, and submit a sound 5 paragraph essay.I believe each of you can do this!

Why We WriteWe write for many reasons; for fun, to express ourselves, to explain, to persuade, etc.Most writing for school is known as expository writing. Well be discussing EXPOSITORY writing today.

Expository WritingGives information about a topicExplains ideasGives directionsShows how to do somethingThe purpose of most expository writing is to communicate ideas or answer questions.

The Essay FormatHelping the EnvironmentRecycleReduce ConsumptionReuseStep 1: Get Organized!Its important to organize your thoughts. Consider using a diagram to organize your main points and the facts you will use to prove them.The THESIS StatementYour thesis statement will have three parts.

The first part states the topic.The American Revolution

The second part states an point.was caused by

The third part includes the facts you will use to prove your point.the lack of representation for colonists, high taxes, and a deep desire for self-rule.

The American Revolution was caused by the lack of representation in Parliament, high taxes, and a deep desire for self-rule.A Good Paragraph

Each paragraph should be no less than three sentences and follow this format.Topic SentenceThree ExamplesConclusionWatching television is enjoyable but it can also be harmful. Many children develop short attention spans as a result of too much television. Also, television can be distracting and keep children from accomplishing their goals. For these reasons, television should be limited each day.

The Body of the EssayPutting It All TogetherStep 1: Analyze the question to find the MAIN TOPIC. Brainstorm ideas.

Step 2: Outline your essay. Identify the main points that fit into the topic.

Step 3: Create a thesis statement based on your main points.

Step 4: Outline Again. Identify the facts you will use to support your main points.

Step 5: Write the Essay.

Step 6: Take a break! Walk away and do something else.

Step 7: Proof read your essay for errors. Read it out loud!Lets Do This TogetherPrompt: Using your knowledge of literature, answer the following question.

How does an author create a mood of suspense in their writing? Consider writing style, plot, and characterization.Main Topic: How an author creates a mood of suspense.Thesis StatementIn their writing, authors establish suspense through the setting, descriptive words, and the characters in that are portrayed.

The SettingA dark and stormy night

A gloomy castle

The cold wind

The door creeks openDescriptive WordsDark and stormy

Gloomy

ColdCharactersThe man is full of anger.

The female is distrusting and suspicious.

The children are sleeping restlessly

This is the proof for my three body paragraphs which will serve to prove my thesis statement.Lets ReviewDont stress, plan and execute!All essays should have 5 basic paragraphs. Outline your points first!The introductory paragraph should include a thesis statement which outlines your main point. Turn the question into a statement and answer it!The 2nd-4th body paragraphs include your three main points and proof to support each point. Use topic sentences to start each body paragraph.A good conclusion will not just repeat the introduction, but will give insight into WHY your points matter. Proof read and check for clarity before submitting.