How to Write: an Essay

What is an essay?

In general, an essay is a piece of writing where you, as the author, explain your position on a topic.

It requires an argument to be presented, explained and supported with subsidiary points and reasons. Part of the reasoning is to take into account opposing opinions and to explain why they are incorrect, in your opinion.

TONE AND REGISTER:      Fairly formal; neutral

FORMAT

Title:                A concise but informative title

Introduction:   Outline the argument you are going to present.

                        Vocabulary – outline/present/discuss etc.

                        e.g. This paper outlines the ….

                        e.g. Advertising influences lifestyle decisions, or does it? This paper discusses the role of advertising and whether advertisers have an obligation to only promote moral and healthy lifestyles.

Body:              2 – 5 paragraphs in length. The paragraphs should show a logical and clear development of the argument leading to the …

Conclusion:     The conclusion should summarise key points of the argument and make clear your opinion.

KEY ELEMENTS

Language functions:  Agreeing and disagreeing.

                                  Developing and justifying an argument

                                  Challenging arguments and opinions

                                  Evaluating different standpoints

                                  Summarising infomration, ideas and arguments

                                  Linking words and phrases – these are essential to help the flow of the writing. Link ideas within a paragraph, and paragraphs to paragraphs.

Grammar:                 Modals and semi-modals. These give an indication of the writer´s attitude.

                                 Complex and adverbial sentences.

                                 Relative clauses.

                                 Mixed Conditionals

                                 These are just some of the grammar functions you should use.

PLAN!