Today’s Warm up Think. What does the thesis sentence do/establish for the paper? Think. What must be included for a strong thesis statement?

Question: Where does this thesis sentence appear? The thesis sentence is, generally, the LAST sentence of the introductory paragraph. Placing the sentence at this point in the paper prepares your reader for the rest of your information.

So…what does the rest of the paper look like?

Introduction Body paragraphs conclusion

What else goes in to the introductory paragraph? There are 3 parts to a great introductory paragraph. An opening lead or attention getter. A sentence or two that names the main topic. The thesis sentence that details what will be in the rest of the paper.

More on Introductions Think of the intro as an inverted triangle. Very broad attention getter. I want to read this paper, but don’t exactly know what it’s about. I start to narrow my ideas by introducing the main topic. I am very narrow and specific here. I’ll tell you exactly what I am going to say in my paper.

SAMPLE INTRO PARAGRAPH The cares of the world disappear for a short time as the rich dark silk slides down my throat. Even if the day has been purely dreadful, chocolate can instantaneously make everything better. Chocolate is the world’s most perfect food because it tastes incredible, is very easy to obtain, and even has some health benefits.

What goes into body paragraphs? Each body paragraph should start with a wonderfully written, fabulously strong, amazing TOPIC SENTENCE. Ex. Chocolate is an amazing food because of its rich, distinctive taste. Pop quiz: How do I know which topic sentence / body paragraph to write first?

What goes into body paragraphs? Of course, each topic sentence needs to be well supported. For your essay, this support will include . . . Explanation Examples REMEMBER: This part is the “meat” of your paper. Use well-written, clear details to thoroughly support the topic sentence.

What are transitional phrases? A transitional phrase leads your reader from one point to the next. Generally, it can be a part of the topic sentence. Examples: Not only does chocolate taste great, but it is also very easy to obtain. OR The second reason why chocolate is the greatest food on earth is that it is very easy to get.

Sample Body paragraph Another reason that chocolate is one of the best foods on earth is that it is easy to obtain. A person can pick up some chocolate at almost any gas station, grocery store, bakery, restaurant or movie theatre in the country. Often times, the chocolate is pretty affordable. Although there are some chocolates that are very expensive, a candy bar can often be bought for less than a dollar. When compared to the price of other ‘feel good’ foods, chocolate is more accessible to average people. Again, chocolate is a great food because it can be an “everyday” food.

What goes into the conclusion? The conclusion paragraph will also likely have 3 parts. Re-state the thesis sentence. Transition to the general topic. End with a memorable close.

What goes into the conclusion? Turn the triangle right-side up to get a visual of the conclusion. Restate your narrow thesis. Broaden the topic out. Make it more general. End with a memorable close

A sample conclusion Chocolate is indeed one of the world’s greatest foods for many reasons. The rich taste, availability, and health benefits make it a true culinary miracle. Chocolate. It will always have first place on my taste buds and in my heart.

I feel like I’m following a recipe. As you are working to strengthen your academic writing, it may feel like this is too much of a formula. As you improve, you will be ready to make more variations. You will find ways in which to show your personality strongly through the structure. Give it some time!

Assignment Possibilities Begin brainstorming about realistic topics that you (and/or your peers) could draft a practice five-paragraph essay. This practice one should be: School appropriate Not require research or ICE quotes Broad enough for three body paragraphs Not too general (i.e. World War II) You have 6 minutes to brainstorm!

Possible Topics Best electronic device Narwhals as best animal Bacon Best place to visit Florida as vacation Technology affects learning Why to get involved music Are all felines bad? Reasons AGAINST essay Narwhals as best animal Rebecca Black is the worst singer ever Merits/demerits of Justin Bieber ______ as best sport Best festival Cats vs. dogs _____ as food/pretzel

Assignment Spend some time brainstorming about 2-3 topic possibilities. Select ONE to draft a practice essay. Do NOT worry about your intro or concluding paragraphs, other than the thesis sentence. For Tuesday: Have a separate Pages file ready with this information: Thesis sentence 3 body paragraphs