2C Essay writing

An essay is...

... a piece of writing about a particular subject. You usually write about one topic that has several main points distributed across different paragraphs (§). An essay comprises an introduction, a body or development paragraphs and a conclusion. The aim of an essay in literature is to analyse how a topic is transmitted through a text, why and what effect is has on the reader.

Discovering Fiction: Choices & Fate

It tells the reader what the essay is about.

1. It usually starts with a "hook", a way to catch the reader's attention;
2. Then, it introduces some background information or context;
3. It defines the topic of the essay;
4. And finally, it ends with a thesis statement, the most important part of an essay.​

Discovering Fiction: Choices & Fate

• Arguable

• Provable

• Specific

• Surprising, or not immediately apparent

• And it answers the questions WHAT - HOW - WHY

Discovering Fiction: Choices & Fate

The body (or development) paragraphs in an essay usually defend a particular argument.

1 § = 1 claim

2 mnemonic strategies to remember how to structure them:

Discovering Fiction: Choices & Fate

PEEL or the Hamburger M0del

PEEL stands for:
- Point out, or Topic Sentence
- Explanation
- Evidence
- Link back, or mini-conclusion

Discovering Fiction: Choices & Fate

The conclusion summarises your main points and gives the reader an idea why your topic is important.

It brings closure to your essay. Do not introduce a new idea or topic!

Discovering Fiction: Choices & Fate