1. An acronym for writing effective paragraphs AXES

2. A=Assertion (topic sentence) X=Example (to support) E=Explanation (of example) S=Significance (why it’s important) At least two X and two E in each body paragraph

3. A=Assertion Your statement about the topic (topic sentence) Lets the reader know the topic of a paragraph (like a thesis statement for that paragraph) Should take a stand or make a claim about an issue or topic Should reveal your position (opinion) on the topic Should not be obvious or self-explanatory Ex: “Miscommunication plays a significant role in the deaths of both Romeo and Juliet.”

4. X=Example Your proof or evidence of your claim A quote or paraphrased passage from the reading that supports or proves your assertion Select phrases or sentences that back up your assertion. Ex: “When Friar Laurence is unable to get word to Friar John about Juliet’s plan to fake her death, this sets the tragedy into motion. Balthasar then witnesses Juliet’s funeral and tells Romeo she is dead.”

5. E=Explanation Examples require explanation. You must demonstrate how your example supports or proves your assertion. A good explanation illustrates or shows the quote confirms your claim. Ex: “Without warning of Juliet’s plan, Romeo had no way of knowing that she was not actually dead and was left with no reason to live. Once Juliet awakens and finds Romeo, she is devastated and sees no other option than to take her own life.”

6. S=Significance Tells the reader what makes your assertion important Answers the question, “So what?” Shows how your assertions is related to real life Should tell your reader how this paragraph is significant to your thesis statement Ex: “In the end, this lack of communication is partially to blame for Romeo and Juliet’s deaths.”

7. AXES Paragraph Sample Thesis: Miscommunication and stubbornness are to blame for the deaths of Romeo and Juliet. (A) Miscommunication plays a significant part in the deaths of both Romeo and Juliet. (X) When Friar Laurence is unable to get word to Friar John about Juliet’s plan to fake her death, this sets the terrible destiny into motion. Balthasar then witnesses Juliet’s funeral and tells Romeo she is dead. (E) Without warning of Juliet’s plan, Romeo had no way of knowing that she was not actually dead and was left with no reason to live. Once Juliet awakens and finds Romeo, she is devastated and sees no other option than to take her own life. (S) In the end, this lack of communication is partially to blame for Romeo and Juliet’s deaths.

8. AXES Paragraph Thesis: Schools should not require students to wear uniforms. Write one AXES paragraph that supports this thesis. What reason will you assert? What examples will you use to support your assertion? How will you explain your examples? How will connect it back to the thesis?