WR 121 Review

Common Essay Structure

• Introduction (including thesis statement.)
• Body (Arguments supporting thesis statement.)
• Conclusion (Summary of arguments, Restatement of thesis.)

Thesis Statement

• A sentence stating the main point of the essay.
• A generalization focusing on a central idea, supported by major arguments.
• In an essay, the thesis is usually included in the introduction and conclusion.
• Some essays do not state the thesis in a single sentence. (This makes it harder for the reader.)

The Rule of "Ones"

• One idea per sentence.
• One topic sentence per paragraph.
• One thesis statement per essay.

Paragraphs in Essays

• Introductory and conclusion paragraphs introduce and summarize the thesis.
• Support paragraphs argue for thesis.
• Kinds of Paragraphs: Examples/Illustration, Narration, Description, Process/Demonstration, Comparison/Contrast, Analogy, Cause & Effect, Classification/Division, Definition.
• Each paragraph includes one topic sentence which covers one idea.

Sentences in Essays

• All sentences have a Subject and a Verb.
• Emphasize the Actor and the Action (usually).
• Vary sentence length, structure, style, openings and endings for emphasis.
• Do not use debatable statements to support your thesis (but you can use "expert" opinions.)

Preparing for the Exam

For the exam, I will ask you to write an essay answering a specific question relating to your experiences as a student in Writing 121. Your thesis and supports will come from your own experiences in class, rather than responding to a specific article. To prepare for the exam, think about the activities we have completed in class and review the learning outcomes for the course.

You will have two hours to complete your essay. I will expect you to write a 3 - 4 page essay. As with any essay, I will be looking for the basic elements of an essay, a clear presentation of thesis and supports, and good, basic mechanics (grammar and punctuation.) You will be able to use any course materials (texts, notes, papers, etc.) that you would like. Please bring a pen/pencil and paper.