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The Structure of a Five-Paragraph Essay

The Parts of the Essay and What They Should Include. Suggestions for Writing Each Section of the Essay
Introduction
  • Introductory material to grab the reader's attention
  • Thesis statement
Follow one of these strategies:
  • Begin with a quotation or proverb
  • Begin with an anecdote
  • Begin with a startling or interesting fact
  • Begin by posing a question

Note:  Make sure that your introduction states the main idea, or thesis, of the essay.

Each Body Paragraph
  • Main supporting idea (topic sentence)
  • Details related to main supporting idea

Note:  A five-paragraph essay should contain three body paragraphs.

Do the following for each paragraph:
  • Use transitions at the beginning of and within the paragraph
  • Include a topic sentence that states a single main idea related to the thesis of the essay
Conclusion
  • Any material that will wrap up the essay and give your reader a satisfying sense of closure

 

 

 

 

 

 

Follow one or more of these strategies:
  • Restate your thesis in other words or as a question
  • Summarize the main ideas from your body paragraphs
  • Draw a conclusion based upon the information that you have presented in the rest of the essay
  • Relate your topic to your reader, telling why it is important to his or her life
  • Suggest that your reader take some action related to the topic

 

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220 Sandwich Road, Bourne, MA 02532    Tel: 508 759-7711    Fax: 508 759-7208
 
 
Last updated: December 6, 2003