Movement in the Essay

 

Writing Paragraphs

 

·       Definition: Sentences focusing on a common point and supporting the document’s thesis.

·       Structure:

o     Topic Sentence

o     Support Sentences

o     Transition Sentence

 

If it doesn’t support the main idea (thesis/topic sentence), don’t include it.

 

Arranging Paragraphs

 

·       Order depends on how you want the reader to access information.

o     Time

§       Narrative, Anecdote, Process

§       Chronological , “Real time” or other

o     Space

§       Descriptive

§       Setting/Context

o     Dramatic

§       Build to Conclusion (Climax)

 

Meeting Readers’ Expectations

 

·       What Readers Expect in an Essay:

o     Format (Intro, Body, Conclusion)

o     Clear statement of thesis

o     Sources for supports

o     Clear, common language

·       What Readers Expect in Paragraphs

o     Separation of main points

o     Smooth transitions between paragraphs

 

Giving the readers what they expect makes it easier for them to read and evaluate your essay.