Essay Writing

Introduction Purpose
Sets the tone for the essay.
Engages the reader by outlining the topic.
Sets up the writers position on a topic or issue.
The section where the main arguments are presented.
Tells the reader what to expect in the rest of the essay.
Deals with how the writer will demonstrate their opinion and what evidence they
will use to back it up.

Introduction Overview
It should start with an interesting first sentence to gain the readers interest and to
set up a context for the essay.
It is used by the writer to state their response to the essay question and shows
whether or not the writer agrees with the idea presented by the question.
It outlines why the writer has taken that position with a summary of the evidence
that supports their position. The points should be generalised and in the order that
they will be presented in the essay.
REMEMBER - The introduction is where the writer says what they are going to say.

Body Purpose
This is where the writer expands on the points outlined in the introduction.
The body is where the writer tries to convince the reader of their point of view and
effectively answers the essay question.
It contains a number of linked paragraphs with references to the text/s to back up
the writers point of view.

Body Overview
Each paragraph in the essay should begin with linking words such as: moreover, in
addition, another, similarly, also, furthermore, however, in contrast, although,
alternatively.
Paragraphs should start with a topic sentence that explains the main ideas of the
paragraph. Each idea may have more than one paragraph.
The writer should back up their point of view with evidence such as quotes or
specific parts of a text.
REMEMBER - The body of an essay is where the writer says what they have to say.
Use the PEEL Chain: Point, Explanation, Example, Link


Conclusion Purpose
Generally one paragraph long.
Provides the writer with the chance to restate their position. This is the last part of
the essay to be read, so try and persuade the reader.

Conclusion Overview
This is where the writer reminds the reader of their point of view.
Do not introduce new arguments here.
The conclusion should end on a strong note that reinforces your main point of view.
REMEMBER - The conclusion is where the writer says what they have said.

Writing Tips
Read the essay question carefully.
Finish any necessary reading or research as background to the essay.
Brainstorm ideas in response to the question.
Develop a thesis (idea/argument) that encapsulates the response to the question.
Write a plan for the response.
Write the introduction.
Write the main body of the essay.
Write the essay conclusion.
Edit the draft (check spelling grammar, delete waffle, check vocabulary, ask
someone else to read it to gain feedback)
Write the final copy.

Presentation
Use Times New Roman or Arial font when typing up your essay.
Font size should be no larger than 12 or no smaller than 10.
Use double line spacing.
Names of texts are to be written in Italics.
Use quotation marks .. for quotes.
Use in text referencing (author, page number, etc)
Write your name and class in the header and include page numbers in the footer.
Include a coversheet with your essay that contains the essay question, name and
class.

Analytical Essay
An analytical essay presents an examination of an issue or problem OR presents an opinion
based on a fact. The writer analyses an issue, text, idea or question by breaking the topic
down into parts or areas that can be supported with facts that help to convince the reader
of the validity of the writers opinion.