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First, you need a topic… You will be a given a “prompt” to write about. You must ALWAYS stick to the prompt. You MUST choose a side to argue (persuasive paper) What do I need to write about?

FMAT  Format: Is it letter or essay? If it is letter, make sure you follow the correct format.  Mode: It is persuasive. So you must remember to persuade your reader to agree with your position.  Audience:. Who am I writing this for? Be VERY careful and make sure it is written exactly for whom it is intended.  Topic: What EXACTLY am I writing about? Which side am I taking on this issue? Remember, you can only choose ONE side, even though you will acknowledge the other side, then refute. it. Hmmmm…

Now, you have to plan your essay Prewriting: What ideas do I have? Make a list of possible reasons and examples to support your position. Organizing: What order do I put my ideas in? Use your graphic organizer to lay out your essay. Be sure to have at least 2 reasons of support, then acknowledge the opposing argument, refute it too! Checkmate!

What is the structural design of my essay? The design of the 5 paragraph essay is quite simple: 1.The Introduction with a strong lead-in, both sides of the issue, your thesis statement telling your side of the issue. Remember, do NOT use “I think” or “In my opinion” statements. 2.Your well-elaborated first reason with specific examples. 3.Your well-elaborated second reason with specific examples. 4.Acknowledge the opposing argument. Then refute it with specific examples. 5.The Conclusion where you restate your thesis and your 3 reasons with a strong, decisive closing statement and a call to action. Be a writing architect!

2 nd Reason: Example 1 st Reason: Example Opposing Arg: Refute: example Summary, then end with call to action! Hook, background, thesis statement

Now you are ready to write! First draft: Since this is the first time you are writing, it does not have to be perfect. The main thing you want to do is get your ideas on paper in the proper essay format. You can do the fine tuning in the… First draft: Since this is the first time you are writing, it does not have to be perfect. The main thing you want to do is get your ideas on paper in the proper essay format. You can do the fine tuning in the… Revision: Now the real writing starts. Steven King says you don’t start writing until you start revising. Look over your essay for errors, and also for what you can say better than before! Have someone proof read for you. Be sure to check FMAT! Revision: Now the real writing starts. Steven King says you don’t start writing until you start revising. Look over your essay for errors, and also for what you can say better than before! Have someone proof read for you. Be sure to check FMAT! “I am beyond writer’s cramp.”

And keep writing…then submit it! Final Draft: This is where it all comes together when you get your essay to be as “good as it gets.” But, before you hand it in, proofread it one last time to be sure it’s just the way you want it to be, then submit it. “There, I’m done!”