04/12/23 Bonnie Startt 2009

Let’s Write an Essay

• What does it take to write an essay?

• It starts like a paragraph.• It has an introduction, a

body, and a conclusion.• It is just a bit longer---

usually 500-750 words. • It will follow the writing

process.

04/12/23 Bonnie Startt 2009

Writing Process• Prewrite– this is anything and

everything you do to begin writing.

• Write– best to get it down in one sitting.

• Revision– look at it again for content

• Edit- spelling/grammar/punctuation

• Publish• http://www.angelfire.com/wi/

writingprocess/

04/12/23 Bonnie Startt 2009

How to start:• Pick a topic. Always try to

find one that appeals to you (not the one you think your teacher will like).

• Determine who your audience will be (that may save some embarrassment when you write something personal in your essay).

• Determine what they know about the topic.

04/12/23 Bonnie Startt 2009

continued• Find out what you know

about the topic before you start writing.

• Try to come up with some ideas which can support your topic.

• Three or four supporting details is usually enough

04/12/23 Bonnie Startt 2009

Let’s Write a Thesis Statement Using a Formula

Take a stand on your topic: We should allow smoking in public places.

Add the work “because” with 3 supporting reasons. … because we can chose where we want to eat, most restaurants have smoking areas, and most people don’t smoke anymore.

Add the word “although” with the oppositions assertion…

… although it is unsafe for people who work there.

4. Clean it up. Marilyn Lantz/ TYCA-SE/ February

2007

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Now it is time to write

• If possible, try to write it in one sitting. It helps your ideas flow better.

• Don’t stop to look for spelling or a better word– it distracts your train of thought.

• DO NOT proof read right away- wait 24 hours (48 is better).

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Continued• On your first review- do

not look for spelling and grammar----- we are looking for content.

• Would the opening encourage someone to read it?

• Is it detailed correctly for your audience?

• This is a good time to “phone a friend” for help.

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Continued • Once you feel you are on

the right track, it is time to do another draft.

• Let it cool – helps you see what you actually wrote not what you meant to write.

• Read your paper from the bottom to the top for grammatical errors. If you have problems with RO– look for those FANBOYS.

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Continued

• One more revision– after a cooling period, review for grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

• Have someone look at it for you.

• FINALLY– turn it in. It will never be exactly what you want; it is just due.