1. The Parts of an Expository Essay
Introduction:
introduces topic
one paragraph
Body:
describes important info
the “meat” of the essay
three paragraphs
Conclusion:
wraps everything up
one paragraph.

2. In other words…
First: Tell them what you’re going to tell them. Second: Tell them. Third: Tell them what you told them.

3. The Introduction Attention Getter (1-2 sent) Connector (2-3 sent)
Statement that gets the reader’s attention
Connector (2-3 sent)
Background information about your topic
Thesis Statement (1 sent)
Informs the reader of your main idea and the three specific points you will make in your essay.

4. Attention Getter Tips
Interesting statement/observation: In most high schools, freshmen are like lost puppies, wandering around confused and often getting into trouble, because they don’t know any better.

5. Attention Getter Tips
Interesting fact or statistic (must be true—not made up): Twenty five percent of high school freshmen in America fail to graduate high school on time.

6. Attention Getter Tips
An interesting/related quote: Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” (pg. 15).

7. Attention Getter Tips!
Expose a commonly held belief.
Most people believe that being called a dork is an insult. However, people who have truly embraced their dorkocity wear that dork label with honor and pride.

8. Attention Getter Tips
Define a key term.
The word “happy” can be defined in multiple ways. The dictionary defines it as “being especially well-adapted.” Dorks are some of the most well-adapted, and thus happiest, individuals alive.

9. Building a Thesis Statement
Give your reader the breakdown: -What is your overall topic? -What three points will you specifically make? EXAMPLE: The three pieces of advice I would give a freshman would be to always keep up with homework, choose the right friends, and follow the Eight Keys of Excellence.

10. Composed of… Three TELCON paragraphs… each without the CON 
The Body Paragraphs
Composed of… Three TELCON paragraphs… each without the CON 

11. The Conclusion ST O P Summarize Thesis (1 sentence) Restate thesis
Use transition (In conclusion, To conclude, Thus,)
Oh yeah! (2 sentences)
Another interesting point/new idea
Something you couldn’t fit before
Another, deeper summary
A reference back to your attention getter
Powerful Statement (1 sentence)
Strong sentence reaffirming your main point