H5 - Introduction to essay writing

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• havo
• Leerjaar 4

Introduction to writing

Lesson goals

• At the end of class, you know the goal of an argumentative/opinion essay.
• At the end of class, you can name the function of each paragraph of an argumentative essay. 
• At the end of class, you can construct a thesis statement, and you can plan the body of your argumentative essay. 

What do you think an argumentative/opinion essay is?

Argumentative/opinion essay

The goal of an argumentative essay is to convince / to persuade your reader that your opinion on a controversial topic is the correct one. 

An argumentative essay consists of 5 paragraphs. What do you think is the function of each paragraph?

5-paragraph essay

1. Introduce the topic and your opinion on it

2. Present first argument in favour of thesis.

3. Present second argument in favour of thesis

4. Present argument against thesis and refute it

5. Summarize your position and arguments

(Paragraph 3 and 4 can be switched around, but only for a good reason!)

Introduction

1. Hook / attention grabber

2. Background information

3. Thesis

4. Road map

Body paragraphs 1 +  2

1. Linking word

2. Topic sentence

3. Explanation

4. Examples / details

5. Concluding statement

Body paragraph 3

1. Linking word (contrast)

2. Topic sentence

(3. Explanation)

4. Refutation

5. Explanation

Conclusion

1. Linking word 

2. Repetition of thesis (in different words)

3. Summary of arguments (in different words)

4. Concluding statement

poor argumentative thesis

• I think schools should only be open from 10 until 2 four days a week
• BBC is the best TV channel
  
• something should be done on media bias

good argumentative thesis

• Newspapers should not identify people by race, colour, or religion in any way
•  It is beneficial for teens to attend school between 10 and 2.
• It is essential for media literacy to be taught in school.
• 
  

Let's try this

1. Read the article together to familiarize ourselves with the topic

2. Formulate one thesis (stelling) that reflects your opinion - this should include your 2 points for and 1 point refuting your opinion

3. Your thesis should be clear, direct, and strong
     not: I think, maybe, perhaps, etc. 
     use language that stands firm: It is essential, clearly, ultimate, evident

Assignment

1. Go on the Internet and find an English newspaper article about a topic that interests you, and you have a strong opinion on. 
2. Read the article carefully to familiarize yourself with the topic.
   
3. Formulate one thesis (stelling) that reflects your opinion. 
4. Copy the URL of your article + your thesis into the next slide

What is the topic of your article, and what is your thesis?