Module 5 Requirements for a university essay Part 1 Transition Module 5 developed by Elisabeth Wielander

Learning objectives At the end of this module, you will be familiar with different types of academic essays know how to find a topic, organise your ideas, and structure an academic essay have an understanding of the formal aspects of essay writing know the differences between personal writing and academic writing

What is an essay? An essay is a piece of writing which is written to a set of writing conventions. The purpose of an essay is to analyse, compare, describe, discuss, evaluate, explain, interpret, summarise, etc The ability to write academically is a crucial skill you will acquire and/or perfect at university. 1 Analyse the question 2 Research 3 Plan 4 Write 5 Edit Based on CSU,2011

Choosing a topic Usually, you will be given a topic or choice of topics to work on by your tutor. It is important that you understand the purpose of any essay you work on. Should you aim to …  give a general overview or a specific analysis of something?  evaluate something?  comment on something?  persuade the reader? Once you are clear on the purpose of your essay, make sure you consult relevant academic literature and source material to get an idea of the context Throughout the process of drafting then writing-up your essay keep checking back to the essay title or essay question to ensure you are addressing the topic

Frequently used terms Ensure that you know exactly what analytical process you are expected to carry out in an essay. Use a dictionary to clarify terms or ask your tutor if needed. Some frequently used terms: Analyse Examine Define Compare Contrast Critically evaluate Discuss Describe To what extent Outline Interpret

Organise your ideas Once you have chosen a topic, it is best to start by organising your ideas. If you find learning visually most effective, you may find it useful to draw a mind map to visualise your ideas and log the information you find as you search the relevant literature. This will help you to: identify what you already know identify the areas you need to develop identify what you need to research topic Main point Sub- points Main point Sub- points