4H3 - Conclusion

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• havo
• Leerjaar 4

Argumentative essays

1. Introduction

2. Body paragraphs

3. Conclusion

Argumentative essays

The function of an argumentative essay is to persuade your audience of your opinion. 

The most relevant information (arguments + explanations) to this end is in your body paragraphs. 

What is the function of an introduction?

What is the function of a conclusion?

Conclusion

Function: summarize and wrap up

1. Repeat thesis > in different words

2. Summarize arguments > in different words

3. Round off entire essay with concluding statement

(Specific to general) 

What linking words can you use to open a conclusion?

In conclusion

To conclude

On the whole

All things considered

All in all

Ultimately

To summarize

To sum up

In sum

Altogether

Overall

Conclusion (linking words)

Concluding statement - tips

1. Consider the 'So what?' question.

Why does what you've written matter?

2. Look for any themes introduced in the introduction

Get a sense of closure by returning to the theme you opened with

3. Link your argument to a different context

Consider the 'big picture' context, give your essay a bigger sense of purpose

What not to do: repeat thesis AGAIN 

Sample essay

Thesis statement: Cats make excellent house pets as they are civilized members of the household, and are easy to care for.

In the first place, cats are attractive to have as a pet because they are civilized members of the household. Unlike dogs, cats do not bark or make other loud noises. Most cats do not even meow very often. They generally lead a quiet existence. Cats also do not have 'accidents' often. Mother cats train their kittens to use the litter box, and mot cats will use it without fail from that time on. Cats do have claws, and owners must make provision for this. A tall scratching post is likely to keep the cat content to leave the furniture alone. As a last resort, of course, cats can be declawed.

In the second place, one of the most attractive features of cats as housepets is their ease of care. Cats do not have to be walked. They get plenty of exercise in the house as they play, and as aforementioned, they do their business in the litterbox. Cleaning a litter box is a quick, painless procedure. Cats also take care of their own grooming. Bathing a cat is therefore almost never necessary. In addition, cats can be left home alone for a few hours without fear. Unlike some pets, most cats will not destroy the furniture when left alone. They are content to go about their usual activities until their owners return. 

Thesis statement:
Cats make excellent house pets as they are civilizes members of the household, and are easy to care for

Write a conclusion to fit this essay.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cats can be considered excellent pets. The main reason for this that they are easy to care for, as they are largely self-reliant. Another important reason is that they are usually well-behaved, and do not make a lot of noise and create messes. Dogs are said to be man's best friend, but cats' time to shine has come!

Repetition 

Thesis statement: "Cats make excellent house pets"

Topic sentence 1: "Cats are attractive to have as a pet"

Topic sentence 2: "one of the most attractive features of cats as housepets"

Conclusion: "cats can be considered excellent pets"

Assignment

Write a conclusion for your own essay (in Class Notebook)

Make sure its about 50-75 words.