Carefully read assignment description: type of essay, length, format * The assignment might ask for a persuasive essay, a compare and contrast essay, an expository essay, a narrative essay, or a descriptive essay — ask your teacher if unclear about the type. * Length will be determined either by page length or by word count. * Format will be outlined: spacing, margins, font, cover page/no cover page etc. Brainstorm the topic (unless it’s already assigned) * A topic can’t be too general or too specific. If your class has been discussing climate change, and you are asked to come up with your own topic, try to think of specific ideas that have been brought up that may interest you to research. * For example: the role of the United States in reducing emissions; the effect of climate change on rainforests, deserts, or coastal cities. * Try and ask questions, which may lead to topics: Has climate change happened before? How did the world change? What caused it in the past? Write a thesis statement based on your chosen topic * Must be a statement that is specific, arguable (can be argued against), and just broad enough for it to be developed in several supporting points (like smaller, mini arguments that each support the thesis). * Example: “Since climate change has already advanced to an uncertain degree, coastal cities worldwide must prepare for altered landscapes and usability of shorelines; this impact will affect coastal cities in several key ways.” Then you would extend the thesis to describe several supporting points that will be further developed in the essay. Structure the essay with clear, well-developed paragraphs * Introduction should describe topic, thesis and supporting points briefly * Each body paragraph should be developed carefully with good logic in mind: * Begin the paragraph with a sentence that makes an argumentative point (something that is in support of or further develops thesis). * Further explain reasoning behind point — include a reference to research if assigned, then reflect upon or examine the research. * Close paragraph with summary or further insight into point. * A good conclusion will summarize the main argument in a new way, and possibly ask probing questions. Separate and determine which ideas are broader arguable points, which are more general, and which ideas are specific, such as examples or evidence * General: “The goal of quality healthcare should be to make access equal to anyone despite their background, or whether they can afford a trip to the hospital” * Specific: “The Currey Institute, for example, in Mitford, Conneticut, accepts patients and creates an action plan for all patients regardless of their ability to pay; any payment that is left outstanding due to financial hardship is covered by the Medical Support Society. There are many similar examples to demonstrate the possibility of support to make healthcare and hospital visits equitable for all.” Search for credible sources (if part of the requirements) * Librarians love to help! If your school has one, ask yours where to start. * Good online resources can be found through your local library online databases: EBSCOhost and Academic Premier are two good databases to begin research. These databases can be accessed with a library card. * Other credible sources are well-recognized national newspapers or government agencies — blogs, personal websites, or fake news sites are NOT good sources. Select key phrases or examples from sources * Read a source for supporting evidence, either stats, examples, or a good argument related to any of your points. * For instance, if you found a book on public speaking skills and your essay was outlining 3 key strategies for public speaking, an excerpt the source might be: “One of the most important skills to develop when planning to speak in front of a crowd, is to practice positive, confident body language.” A quote like this from a source would give credibility to a point you are trying to make about making a good impression, or how to connect with your audience. Check for logic — clear connections between sentences that build the argument * Some examples of words that show logical relationships are: also, therefore, and, similarly, like, in addition, contrary to, in particular, this indicates, this example reflects, this evidence suggests. Revise and Edit * Revise at least two times. * Review format, structure, logic, word choice (can any words be changed to make it sound more complex?), grammar, punctuation, use of sources. * Ask a parent or friend to read it and request feedback — remember that they shouldn’t change the paper themselves, otherwise this is plagiarism.