Educational Support Services Basic Five Paragraph Essay Copy & Design: Verna Fisher

An introduction1 Three body paragraphs +3 A conclusion _ 1__ Total paragraphs5

The introduction Introduce your topic. Introduce your topic. Typically, the last sentence will also include a thesis statement. Typically, the last sentence will also include a thesis statement. A thesis statement tells the reader what your paper will be about, and it often has a point (opinion, argument) to prove. A thesis statement tells the reader what your paper will be about, and it often has a point (opinion, argument) to prove.

Body paragraphs Each paragraph is about a different idea, topic, or reason. The first sentence (topic sentence) tells what the paragraph is about. Next come up with two or three examples that are about that topic the item. Add sentences with details to make the examples clear. You can also have a concluding sentence that ties the paragraph together.

Conclusion The conclusion is the place to sum up your essay and re-state your thesis statement in different words. The end of the conclusion should be something “more.” Give us something about the future—a prediction, wish, etc. Or, tell us why we care.

Sample worksheet Introduction with thesis statement 1st body paragraph –T–T–T–Topic sentence –E–E–E–Example 1 –E–E–E–Example 2 –E–E–E–Example 3 2nd body paragraph –T–T–T–Topic sentence –E–E–E–Example 1 –E–E–E–Example 2 –E–E–E–Example 3 3rd body paragraph –T–T–T–Topic sentence –E–E–E–Example 1 –E–E–E–Example 2 –E–E–E–Example 3 Conclusion with re-stated thesis statement and something more