1. An essay is a (A) literary, (B) analytical composition (C) expressing the author's viewpoint on a (D) single subject.

2. Essays should consist of five paragraphs (1 introduction, 3 body, and 1 conclusion)

3. The general length should be three handwritten pages

Steps in Writing an Essay

1. Analyze the Question

A. Without a clear understanding of the question, you cannot write an adequate answer.

B. Understand key terms: assess, explain, evaluate, define, compare, contrast

2. Collect and Sort Information

A. Brainstorm facts, people, events related to the topic to be used as evidence

B. Organize facts into related groups or themes

3. Develop a Thesis

A. Thesis: Your opinion on the given topic

B. Must be in opening paragraph. The reader must know your position on the question.

4. Writing the Introduction

A. Restate question: not copy it word for word"

B. State your thesis

C. Indicate major points to be discussed in body paragraphs

5. Writing the Body Paragraphs

A. Provide factual information to prove your thesis

B. Facts should be organized in logical sequence

C. Each set of facts should be in a separate paragraph

D. Refute arguments contrary to your thesis

6. Writing the Conclusion

A. Conclusion should bring reader back to your thesis and the question

B. DO NOT introduce new evidence